Vienna: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the need for sustainable and inclusive development to achieve lasting peace amidst the crises of the times. He was addressing the UN event titled "Sustainable Development, the Path to Global Peace and Prosperity" in Vienna today. According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister noted that development cannot be considered sustainable if it excludes millions from the promise of a better life. He underscored the importance of pursuing policies that promote inclusion, strengthen social protection, and ensure equitable distribution of resources. Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the challenge posed by climate change to developing countries, including Pakistan, which contributes less than one percent of global emissions yet bears the brunt of cascading impacts. The Prime Minister alluded to the devastation caused by recent floods in Pakistan, stating that these disasters erode human security. He emphasized that development must be anchored in equity, justice, and fair play, as without these principles, global peace will remain elusive forever. Pakistan remains committed to the ideals of sustainable development, integrating the sustainable development goals into its national development planning. The focus is on human development, education, healthcare, food security, and social protection, while strengthening institutions, promoting digital transformation, and expanding regional connectivity to foster shared prosperity. Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan's consistent advocacy for dialogue, diplomacy, and multilateralism as the only means to resolve disputes and prevent conflicts. Referring to the Pakistan-India conflict of last year, he regretted that the neighboring country threatened to weaponize the waters of the Indus River system, which sustains the lives and livelihoods of Pakistan's 240 million people. The Prime Minister also called for the reinforcement, proper resourcing, and reform of the UN to continue serving as the central pillar of global cooperation. In hi s opening remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar stated that Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN charter, recognizing the indispensable role of the UN in global peace, security, sustainable development, and the promotion of human rights. Dar affirmed Pakistan's commitment to working with all partners for a future where peace, prosperity, and sustainable development go hand in hand. Pakistan and United Nations agencies signed three documents of cooperation, including the United Nations Industrial Development Organization Country Partnership Program for Pakistan 2025-2030; the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Country Program for Pakistan; and an agreement between the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology Lahore and the International Atomic Energy Agency. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
PM Calls for Sustainable, Inclusive Development to Achieve Lasting Peace
RECENT NEWS
PM Invites Austrian Businesses to Expand Investments in Pakistan
February 17, 2026
BISP Announces Increase in Stipends Under Various Programmes
February 17, 2026
KSrelief and NDMA Initiate Food Aid Across 30 Pakistani Districts
February 17, 2026
National Progress Depends on Water Security: President
February 17, 2026
Govt Prioritizing Expansion of Exports: Qaiser
February 17, 2026
PM Terms Meeting with Austrian Chancellor Highly Productive
February 17, 2026
Qaiser Seeks to Boost Economic and Investment Ties with Saudi Arabia
February 17, 2026