With world leaders converging on New York for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80), the escalating crises in Gaza and Qatar are reshaping global diplomatic priorities, with significant implications for Pakistan’s engagement with the United States.
Key Issues and Pakistan’s Role
The crises in Gaza and Qatar have made Palestine a central topic of discussion at UNGA 80. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to address the General Assembly and is also expected to participate in a high-level international conference on the “Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.”
Pakistan’s proactive stance on these issues has elevated its profile within the Muslim world. The country’s recent mutual defense accord with Saudi Arabia further enhances its significance in regional security discussions. This diplomatic focus is expected to impact planned meetings on the sidelines of the summit, as Middle Eastern actors engage in intense diplomatic activity.
Pakistan-US Relations and Potential Meeting
A proposed meeting between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif may have to be rescheduled due to the intensifying crises in Gaza and Qatar. While the White House is still interested in the meeting, the focus on the Middle East may limit the interaction to the sidelines of the assembly session in New York. Islamabad, however, would prefer a full-fledged meeting at the White House to address bilateral and regional issues. Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir is also expected to accompany the Prime Minister.
Other Important Topics at UNGA 80
In addition to the Middle East crises, other key topics at this year’s General Assembly include:
- Climate change, with a Climate Summit convened by the UN Secretary-General.
- AI Governance, with the launch of a Global Dialogue to establish principles for inclusive and accountable oversight.
- Gender Equality, marking the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration.
- Global Health, focusing on the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and mental health.
- Financing for Development, aimed at strengthening commitments to a sustainable global economy.
These discussions highlight the UN’s efforts to address a range of converging crises, including intensifying wars, climate emergencies, and widening inequality, with a renewed focus on human rights.
