ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated the importance of peaceful dispute resolution through constructive dialogue and diplomatic efforts. His remarks came during an international conference held in Ashgabat, commemorating the “International Year of Peace and Trust 2025,” the “International Day of Neutrality,” and Turkmenistan’s 30 years of maintaining its stance of permanent neutrality.
Addressing the gathering, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that diplomacy remains a fundamental principle of Pakistan’s foreign policy. He expressed support for the Gaza peace initiative and welcomed the UN Security Council’s backing of the plan. The Prime Minister expressed hope that ongoing peace negotiations in the Middle East will succeed in safeguarding innocent Palestinian lives, establishing a durable ceasefire, facilitating vital humanitarian aid, and aiding Gaza’s reconstruction efforts.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the resilience of the Kashmiri community. Shehbaz Sharif also called on the international community to press the Afghan Taliban regime to meet its international commitments and curb terror activities emanating from Afghanistan.
Highlighting the link between peace and sustainable development, the Prime Minister underscored that the 2030 Agenda offers a global framework for creating a more peaceful and prosperous world. He emphasized that socio-economic development and improving citizens’ welfare are top priorities for his government, with notable progress made in financial inclusion, empowering women, and integrating marginalized groups into the economy.
Shehbaz Sharif also pointed to Pakistan’s commitment to environmental sustainability, noting that the country has taken the lead in eco-restoration efforts despite facing climate-related challenges. He acknowledged that climate change, poverty, and inequality are global issues requiring collective action based on shared responsibility. He stressed the importance of equitable access to advanced technologies, especially digital tools, to bridge development gaps.
The Prime Minister called for increased investments in connectivity projects—not just to enhance trade but to foster people-to-people exchanges, ideas, and shared prosperity. He urged the international community to unite in building a future rooted in peace, mutual trust, and collaborative progress.
During the conference, Shehbaz Sharif engaged in informal and friendly talks with several world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, underscoring his active role on the global stage.
