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 called 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. He mentioned 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 the cascading impact.
Alluding to the devastation caused by floods in Pakistan in recent years, the Prime Minister said 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. He reiterated Pakistan's commitment to the ideals of sustainable development.
He stated that Pakistan has integrated the sustainable development goals into its national development planning, recognizing that economic growth must be inclusive, resilient, and responsible. The focus is on human development, education, healthcare, food security, and social protection. Efforts are being made to strengthen institutions, promote digital transformation, and expand regional connectivity to foster shared prosperity.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that Pakistan has consistently advocated 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 neighbor threatened to weaponize the waters of the Indus River system that sustains the lives and livelihoods of Pakistan's 240 million people.
The Prime Minister stressed that the UN must be reinforced, properly resourced, and reformed to continue serving as the central pillar of global cooperation.
In his 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 promotion of human rights. He affirmed Pakistan's commitment to working with all partners for a future where peace, prosperity, and sustainable development go hand in hand.
Pakistan and the United Nations agencies also 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 one 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.