UNGA President Volkan Bozkir on a visit to Pakistan

United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Volkan Bozkir said on Thursday that it was Pakistan’s duty to bring the issue of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute to the United Nations platform with more vigor.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad along with Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi after their meeting today, the UNGA president said it was a lack of large political determination for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute compared to the Palestinian issue which had more will behind it.

“I think it is the duty, especially Pakistan’s, to bring this issue to the United Nation platform more strongly,” said Bozkir. He agreed that the Palestinian issue and the Kashmir issue were of the same age.

He called on all parties to refrain from changing the status of Jammu and Kashmir. And said a solution was to be found. Through peaceful means in accordance with the UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. As agreed in the Simla Agreement between Pakistan and India.

Addressing the press conference, FM Qureshi said that he had briefed the president on the “dire situation”. In Indian-occupied Kashmir and told the similarities between the Palestinian and Kashmir issues. He highlighted the common demands of the people and said both issues had been UNSC agenda items for decades.

“Pay attention. These are international obligations. The UN must play that role of responsibility which is due,” stressed the foreign minister.

“The Kashmir dispute is a reality and no one can deny it or remove it from the UNSC agenda.”

The situation in Afghanistan

Speaking about other topics discussed in the meeting, Qureshi said he had also briefed Bozkir on the evolving situation in Afghanistan. And Pakistan’s role in its peace process.

He said the solution to the Afghan issue would have regional and global effects therefore “I think what Pakistan is doing together with Turkey and Afghanistan is very important,” adding that it was necessary to take the opportunity and “appreciate your efforts and hope that you will come with a success story”.

Bozkir also praised Prime Minister Imran Khan and his efforts, particularly the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami initiative. He gave voice to the difficulties. Also, Pakistan’s performance in dealing with Covid-19. Moreover, he said it was “remarkable” and much better than other countries. He also hailed FM Qureshi’s leadership on the Palestinian issue. And said he had represented Pakistan in the world “in a very good way”.

FM Qureshi in turn thanked the UNGA president for his visit and said: “We always look forward to your coming to Pakistan, you are a friend of Pakistan and in our humble way. We will be acknowledging that and recognizing your services.”

Meeting with PM Imran

Later in the day, Bozkir met Prime Minister Imran Khan. And the two held discussions on regional and international peace and security, sustainable development, and economic recovery efforts.

Also, read PM Imran attends UNGA session virtually.

According to a statement by the PM’s Office, the prime minister and UNGA president exchanged thoughts on Palestine, the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, the Afghan peace process, and illicit financial flows from proceeds of crime, corruption, and bribery.

The prime minister appreciated Bozkir’s role in convening the special session of the UNGA. On the situation in Palestine, emphasizing the need for a “just solution in line with relevant UN resolutions and two-state vision”.

Prime Minister Imran also underlined Pakistan’s “strong commitment to multilateralism with the UN playing a central role”. He highlighted the need for increased international cooperation to deal with climate change. Also,  environmental degradation, and debt relief for developing countries as they dealt with the economic effects of the pandemic.

Bozkir informed the prime minister about various initiatives the UNGA that took place during his presidency.