Social media trolls Pak PM over our terrorists remark
Warning that global safety remains inextricably linked to regional stability, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif delivered a stark assessment of his nation’s counterterrorism efforts on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly: “If we hadn’t controlled our terrorists, they would have been roaming the streets of New York or London.”
The striking declaration underscored Pakistan’s central thesis as Sharif joined nearly 130 world leaders in New York for the high-level segment of the 81st UN General Assembly. The annual gathering comes at a precarious moment for global security, as the ongoing US-Iran conflict, Houthi strikes targeting Saudi Arabia, and the devastating war in Gaza continue to fuel wider regional instability.
Pakistan has aggressively sought to position itself as a key mediator between Washington and Tehran. Islamabad’s diplomatic intervention previously facilitated negotiations that produced the landmark Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding in June—an agreement designed to establish a framework for ending regional hostilities. However, subsequent peace talks have stalled in recent weeks amid renewed military escalation and sharp disagreements over implementation.
In an official statement released ahead of his general debate speech on Sept. 25, Sharif’s office confirmed that the prime minister will use the platform of the 193-member assembly to highlight Pakistan’s “active diplomatic and mediation efforts” aimed at reducing regional flashpoints.
“In his address, the prime minister will present Pakistan’s position on the evolving regional and global security situation, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of conflicts,” his office stated.
Beyond counterterrorism and regional security, Sharif’s address will articulate Islamabad’s policy stance on sustainable economic development, global climate action, combating Islamophobia, and addressing international economic disparities.
Sharif is also expected to renew Pakistan’s long-standing calls regarding Palestine and the Kashmir dispute, drawing direct parallels between the two issues. He will call on the international community to guarantee both Palestinians and Kashmiris their right to self-determination.
Throughout the week, Sharif will participate in high-level side events focused on climate resilience and economic development, alongside scheduled bilateral meetings with world leaders and UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
