Antonio Guterres pays tributes to Pakistanis martyred during peace missions

ISLAMABAD (92 News) – United Secretary General Antonio Guterres paid tributes to Pakistanis martyred during peace missions and observed a one-minute silence for them. Addressing a ceremony with regard to international peace at Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) at National University Sciences and Technology (NUST) on Monday, he said that Pakistan fought the war against terrorism successfully. “Security has improved in Pakistan during the last few years.” Antonio Guterres said that his visit to Pakistan – an ally of peace mission – is a matter of pride for him. “The vision of the Pakistan government for peace and stability is laudable. Over 100,000 Pakistani jawans worked for peace missions.” DG MO Maj Gen Nauman Zakariya said that over 4,000 Pakistani officials, including women, were serving in nine countries. “156 Pakistani officials have embraced martyrdom for international peace,” he said. Later, Antonio Guterres also inaugurated a picture exhibition. DG MO Maj Gen Nauman Zakariya said that over 4,000 Pakistani officials, including women, were serving in nine countries. “156 Pakistani officials have embraced martyrdom for international peace,” he said. Earlier addressing an International Conference for Afghan Refugees, United Secretary General Antonio Guterres said that it was time that the international community should help Pakistan in a true sense. “The Afghan peace needs intensive care. It should not die,” he added. He said that he is encouraged by Pakistan's commitment for peace in Afghanistan. “Once peace is restored, the world should heavily invest for development of this area and providing equal opportunities to the displaced people. Afghan led and Afghan owned peace process is the only solution in Afghanistan,” he said. To a question regarding the Kashmir issue, the UN secretary general said that the UN Security Council resolutions and human rights must be respected. “Every problem must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.” He also offered his good offices for resolving outstanding issues between Pakistan and India if the two sides agree. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that peace in Afghanistan and Pakistan is interlinked. “We will have to jointly defeat the enemies of peace. We can open a new era of development in this region through joint efforts.” He said that Zalmay Khalilzad’s commitment had satisfied that the US would not repeat his mistake. Meanwhile, United Secretary General Antonio Guterres reached Lahore on Monday evening. He was taken to a private hotel amid tight security. Punjab Minister for Finance Makhdoom Hashim Jawan Bakhat welcomed the distinguished guest. Lahore Commissioner Saif Anjum and Lahore CCPO Zulfiqar Hameed were also present.