News York (Web Desk/Agencies): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held meetings with several world leaders on the sidelines of 79th Session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and United Kingdom (UK) Prime Minister M Rt. Hon. Sir Keir Starmer on Thursday agreed to further strengthen bilateral ties in various sectors especially trade and investment.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed matters of mutual interests and bilateral relations between the two countries.
The prime minister apprised his British counterpart of the country’s current economic situation and the government’s measures being taken for the development and growth of the country’s economy especially the efforts made in implementing the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) tax reforms and expanding the tax base.
Additionally, PM Shahbaz Sharif also informed about the challenges Pakistan faced due to the adverse effects of climate change.
He highlighted Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, emphasizing that terrorism was a global issue that required collective action from the international community.
The prime minister noted that the UK was the third-largest investor in Pakistan and discussed the investment opportunities and projects available in the country.
While mentioning the significant role of Pakistanis residing in the UK in the development of both countries, the prime minister expressed a desire to utilise their contributions effectively to achieve mutual development goals.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday also met Iran’s President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian.
Both sides reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and underscored the need to further strengthen good neighbourly relations and build mutually beneficial cooperation.
The prime minister highlighted the importance of enhancing bilateral trade and investment, improving connectivity and cultural ties with Iran.
Reiterating Pakistan’s stance on Palestine, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and end of aggression against Palestine and Lebanon.
The meeting helped reaffirm support for each other and bring forth opportunities for further strengthening this partnership.
In PM Shehbaz Sharif’s meeting with his Iraqi counterpart Mohammad Shia' Al Sudani, the two leaders agreed to further deepen and broaden the scope of existing bilateral ties.
PM Shehbaz lauded the cordial ties between the two brotherly countries, reinforced by strong historical, cultural and religious affinities.
He also commended the excellent arrangements made by the Government of Iraq for the Pakistani Zaireen.
The two leaders decided to benefit from the potential that exists between the two countries for enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Both the leaders noted with grave concern the ongoing Israeli carnage on Gaza and the ensuing humanitarian catastrophe.
PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan's call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and holding Israel accountable for the Gaza genocide.
Underscoring the commonality of views on international issues, both the leaders resolved to reinforce the international efforts at the United Nations and the OIC platforms for immediate ceasefire in Gaza, unimpeded supply of humanitarian assistance to Palestinian brethren.
PM Shehbaz met his Nepalese counterpart K.P. Sharma Oli on Friday and expressed Pakistan’s desire to further strengthen the multi-faceted bilateral cooperation, especially in commercial, economic, trade, and tourism sectors.
In the meeting, the two leaders reiterated their commitment to continue exploring avenues for enhancing bilateral and regional cooperation.
PM Shehbaz congratulated K.P. Sharma Oli on assuming the office of the prime minister.
Expressing satisfaction at the excellent bilateral ties between Pakistan and Nepal, he conveyed warm sentiments and wishes for the people and the government of Nepal on behalf of the people of Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz also extended an invitation to the Nepalese prime minister to visit Pakistan.