Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party and former foreign minister, led a high-level parliamentary delegation to the United Nations. There, he met with the permanent representatives of the elected members (E10) of the United Nations Security Council to present Pakistan’s perspective on escalating tensions with India and to counter what he described as “baseless propaganda” from New Delhi.
The delegation, which included prominent political figures and former ministers such as Sherry Rehman, Hina Rabbani Khar, and Dr. Musaddik Malik, held meetings with representatives from Denmark, Greece, Panama, Somalia, Algeria, Guyana, Japan, South Korea, Sierra Leone, and Slovenia.
‘Accusations Without Evidence Unacceptable’
In a firm message delivered during the meetings, Bilawal Bhutto asserted that accusing Pakistan without credible evidence or a thorough investigation is “completely unacceptable” and undermines regional stability.
“India’s baseless allegations are part of a deliberate narrative. We are here to present facts and evidence to the international community,” Bilawal stated, adding that Pakistan’s response to Indian aggression has been “measured, responsible, and in accordance with the UN Charter.”
Indus Waters Treaty Under Threat
Bilawal also drew attention to India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, characterizing it as a dangerous escalation with potential repercussions for millions in Pakistan. He further noted that targeting residential areas and suspending the water treaty posed a threat to regional peace.
He emphasized, “The international community should not be limited to post-conflict efforts, but find pre-conflict solutions for lasting peace in South Asia.”
“Weaponizing water is an act of aggression. It could lead to a water shortage, food insecurity, and environmental disasters,” warned Sherry Rehman, Hina Khar, Mosaddiq Malik, and other delegation members. The delegation briefed UNSC representatives on how India’s unilateral actions could trigger a broader humanitarian and ecological crisis in South Asia.
Plea for Peace and Respect for International Law
The Pakistani delegation underscored the urgent necessity for a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir dispute, cautioning that regional peace is unattainable without addressing this decades-old issue. Bilawal urged the international community to transcend mere “crisis management” and actively pursue long-term solutions.
“Pakistan wants peace, but peace with respect and equality. India has opened a new front by using water as a weapon and suppressing Muslims both at home and in occupied Kashmir,” he said in a video statement from New York. “We must tell the world that Pakistan is the biggest victim of terrorism and is committed to fighting all forms of it.”
Strategic Dialogue with China
Bilawal also conducted a separate meeting with China’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Fu Cong. The meeting involved a detailed discussion on Indian aggression and the prevailing regional security situation.
Bilawal briefed the Chinese delegation on Pakistan’s responsible conduct following the Pahalgam attack. He highlighted that India had rejected Pakistan’s offer for a transparent and impartial investigation into the incident.
He also stressed that resolving the Kashmir dispute is crucial for achieving lasting peace in South Asia. He urged China to play its role in accordance with United Nations resolutions. He also called on the international community to move beyond crisis management and pursue long-term solutions.
The Pakistani delegation expressed serious concerns over India’s targeting of Pakistani civilians. Bilawal stated that India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty constitutes weaponizing water.
Pakistan and China reaffirmed their opposition to unilateral actions and aggression. Both sides emphasized the importance of upholding the UN Charter, international laws, and bilateral agreements. They also reiterated their commitment to restoring peace in the region through multilateral cooperation.
According to diplomatic sources, several elected UNSC members commended Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach and expressed support for continued engagement on regional peace and security.
