ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Austerity Campaign has led to a further reduction in the delegation accompanying Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to the United States for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Atta Tarar and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi will accompany the prime minister during the visit.
The decision to keep the delegation limited comes as the government continues its policy of reducing expenses and restricting the size of official delegations during foreign visits.
Initially, several federal ministers and senior officials were expected to travel with the prime minister. However, the delegation has now been limited to key and essential officials.
Prime Minister Austerity Campaign Further Limits US Visit Delegation
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to address the 81st UN General Assembly on September 25. During his address, he is expected to present Pakistan’s position on global and regional developments and highlight the country’s priorities on key international issues.
During his stay in New York, the prime minister is expected to hold bilateral meetings with heads of state and other world leaders. The discussions are likely to cover bilateral relations, regional developments, global peace and economic cooperation.
The prime minister is also expected to meet the UN secretary-general and senior officials of the international organisation to discuss issues of importance to Pakistan.
Palestine and Kashmir
The situation in Palestine and occupied Jammu and Kashmir is expected to feature prominently in Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements.
Pakistan has consistently called for the rights of the Palestinian people to be protected, a resolution of the Kashmir dispute and the peaceful settlement of international conflicts.
Middle East Situation
The ongoing situation in the Middle East is also expected to be discussed during the visit. Pakistan supports efforts to reduce regional tensions and resolve disputes through dialogue and diplomatic means.
Climate Change and Economic Challenges
Climate change, sustainable development and the economic challenges facing developing countries are also expected to be among Pakistan’s key areas of focus.
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Pakistan has repeatedly called for greater international cooperation and support for developing countries dealing with the effects of climate change.
Cooperation Against Terrorism
International cooperation against terrorism will also remain an important part of Pakistan’s diplomatic agenda. The prime minister is expected to highlight Pakistan’s efforts to promote regional peace and stability and combat terrorism.
With the delegation further reduced, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s US visit will primarily focus on the UN General Assembly session and key diplomatic and official engagements.
