ISLAMABAD: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have held high-level talks in Islamabad focusing on regional security, diplomatic engagement, UN reform and the future of multilateral cooperation.

The meeting took place during Guterres’ official visit to Pakistan, with both sides discussing a broad range of international and regional issues at a time when several conflicts and geopolitical tensions are challenging the global diplomatic system.

Focus on Dialogue and De-escalation

During the discussions, Guterres acknowledged Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue, mediation and de-escalation. Particular attention was given to Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran.

The UN chief also recognized Pakistan’s contribution as an elected member of the UN Security Council and its participation in international peacekeeping operations.

The discussions highlighted the importance of diplomatic channels at a time when disagreements between major powers and regional actors continue to create pressure on international institutions.

Pakistan Calls for UN Reform

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for a more effective, inclusive and representative United Nations.

He welcomed the UN Secretary-General’s UN80 Initiative and said that reforms should take into account the priorities of developing countries while strengthening conflict prevention, peacekeeping, peacebuilding and peaceful dispute settlement.

The Pakistani leadership has also called for greater international cooperation in strengthening multilateral institutions and ensuring that developing countries have a stronger voice in global decision-making.

Afghanistan and Regional Security

Afghanistan was another important issue discussed during the meeting.

Sharif stressed that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan remains important for Pakistan. He also called for concrete and verifiable action against militant groups that Pakistan says operate from Afghan territory.

The issue comes amid continuing regional concerns about terrorism, border security and political stability in South Asia.

Discussions on Kashmir and the Indus Waters Treaty

The Pakistani prime minister also reiterated Islamabad’s position that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute should be resolved peacefully in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

Sharif additionally raised the Indus Waters Treaty, describing it as a binding international agreement and criticizing India’s decision to place the treaty in abeyance. These statements represent Pakistan’s position on the disputed issue.

Gaza and International Financing

The meeting also covered the situation involving Palestinians. Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s support for Palestinian self-determination and statehood and expressed support for implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan and the relevant UN Security Council resolution.

Economic issues affecting developing countries were also discussed. Sharif called for greater access to affordable and concessional financing to help developing nations pursue development objectives and strengthen climate resilience.

Guterres Recognizes Pakistan’s UN Role

Guterres praised Pakistan’s longstanding contribution to the United Nations and international peace and security.

Pakistan has participated extensively in UN peacekeeping missions, while its current engagement with the Security Council has provided another avenue for the country to participate in discussions on international peace and security.

The UN chief also welcomed Pakistan’s continued support for multilateralism and diplomatic approaches to resolving disputes.

A Wider Diplomatic Message

The Islamabad meeting comes as the international community faces multiple armed conflicts, humanitarian crises and growing disagreements over the effectiveness of existing global institutions.

For the United Nations, strengthening dialogue between member states remains a central challenge. For Pakistan, the discussions provided an opportunity to highlight its diplomatic role, peacekeeping record and calls for greater representation of developing countries within international institutions.

Guterres’ visit also underscored the continuing importance of Pakistan-UN cooperation on peace, security, development, climate resilience and humanitarian issues.

As the UN prepares for a leadership transition at the end of 2026, discussions about multilateralism and international cooperation are likely to remain central to the global diplomatic agenda. Guterres’ current visit therefore carries significance beyond bilateral Pakistan-UN relations, particularly amid efforts to preserve dialogue and diplomatic channels in a deeply divided international environment.