ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reiterated its principled position of remaining a strong partner in all endeavors for peace, stability and development of the region and the whole world.
This was stated by Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari while addressing the 29th ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Friday. The Foreign Minister said a peaceful and stable Asia-Pacific is a priority for Pakistan and our region should not become an arena for strategic competition but for win-win solutions peaceful co-existence.
He said Pakistan is ready to work with all ARF partners to strengthen this ASEAN led Forum and to develop its linkages with other international platforms for conflict prevention. Speaking about climate change, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasized the need for workable solutions for the most gravely impacted nations having limited financial capacity and requiring greater international support to fight the threat.
Expressing concern over the continuation of conflict in Ukraine, the Foreign Minister underscored that cessation of hostilities, continued focus on humanitarian needs, and resumption of sustained dialogue, are essential.
Highlighting the importance of peaceful resolution of long-standing disputes in South Asia for sustainable peace and prosperity of the region, the Foreign Minister strongly condemned and rejected illegal and unilateral measures to perpetuate unlawful occupation and affect demographic changes in occupied territories, in gross violation of UN Security Council resolutions and international law.
He added that such actions have vitiated the environment for meaningful and result-oriented dialogue. About Afghanistan, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said a peaceful, stable, prosperous and connected Afghanistan is critical for our region.
He said Pakistan continues to emphasize inclusivity in governance and respect for the human rights of all Afghans, especially women and girls. He also called for constructive engagement and practical cooperation between the Afghan Interim authorities and the international community to improve mutual understanding and promote common goals.