Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has warned that at least 25 terrorist organizations are actively operating within Afghanistan, posing a significant threat to global security. He called for enhanced international cooperation to address the challenge during a meeting with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
The discussion took place on Wednesday and also involved Pakistan’s Minister of State for Interior, Talal Chaudhry. The officials focused on regional and international security issues, including Pakistan’s efforts in UN peacekeeping missions. Naqvi emphasized Pakistan’s ongoing fight against terrorism and underlined the necessity for a unified global response. He highlighted that Pakistani personnel continue to serve in UN peacekeeping operations, with 181 Pakistanis having lost their lives during such missions.
Guterres praised Pakistan’s longstanding and prominent role in international peacekeeping activities, acknowledging the country’s contributions as both significant and commendable. His visit to Pakistan, which concluded on Thursday, was described by the Foreign Office as strengthening the nation’s enduring partnership with the United Nations and reaffirming its commitment to multilateralism.
During his stay, Guterres met with key Pakistani leaders, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. Talks with Deputy Prime Minister Dar covered a range of issues such as regional and global security, counterterrorism strategies, Afghanistan, sustainable development, and climate change. Dar reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to resolving disputes through diplomacy and dialogue in line with the United Nations Charter. He also highlighted Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts to bolster regional stability and expressed support for Palestinian self-determination and statehood.
Guterres commended Pakistan during his meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, particularly noting the country’s role in fostering dialogue, mediation, and international cooperation. Additionally, the UN chief was briefed by Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority on advancements in disaster preparedness and early warning capabilities.
In recognition of his contributions to peace and development worldwide, President Zardari awarded Guterres the Nishan-i-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan’s highest civilian honors, earlier in the week.