President Asif Ali Zardari has conferred Nishan-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan's highest civil awards, upon United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in recognition of his distinguished international service, leadership of the United Nations and contribution to global peace and development.

The award, the first conferred by Pakistan on any UN Secretary-General, was presented at a special investiture ceremony in Islamabad this evening.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, members of the Federal Cabinet, lawmakers and members of the diplomatic corps attended the ceremony.

Earlier, during a meeting with the UN Secretary-General, the President reiterated Pakistan's commitment to peace and stability in South Asia. He stressed that durable peace requires sustained dialogue between Pakistan and India as equal neighbours and resolution of all outstanding disputes, particularly Jammu and Kashmir, as agreed under UN resolutions respecting the sentiments of the Kashmiri people.

The President also conveyed Pakistan's position that the Indus Waters Treaty is a binding international agreement and cannot be unilaterally suspended or placed in abeyance. He stressed that water should not be used as a weapon and an instrument of political pressure and that Pakistan's water rights under the treaty, recognised by international courts, must be respected.

Discussing regional peace and diplomacy, Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan's diplomatic efforts, including the Islamabad Talks, had been guided by the imperative of de-escalation, dialogue and protection of human life. He reaffirmed Pakistan's readiness to facilitate diplomacy wherever it could be helpful, stressing that there is no alternative to dialogue for addressing regional disputes.

The President said Pakistan remains steadfast in its support for the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination. He appreciated the UN Secretary-General's consistent advocacy for Palestinian statehood and a two-state solution and said Pakistan would continue supporting efforts towards implementation of the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

On counter-terrorism and Afghanistan, the President said Pakistan continues to face terrorism from groups operating from Afghan territory and has shared evidence concerning external support to terrorist proxies targeting Pakistan. He stressed that Afghan territory must not be used against Pakistan or any other country.

The President reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to dialogue and regional cooperation while safeguarding its people and territory in accordance with international law.

The President highlighted Pakistan's longstanding contribution to United Nations peacekeeping. He noted that over 270,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have served in 48 UN missions across the world. He reaffirmed Pakistan's firm commitment to UN peacekeeping as a vital instrument for maintaining international peace and security.

President Asif Ali Zardari appreciated the Secretary-General's leadership of the UN80 Initiative and supported efforts to make the United Nations more efficient, coherent and effective. He stressed that reform must safeguard the interests of developing countries, accelerate sustainable development and strengthen conflict prevention, peacekeeping and peacebuilding.

On climate change, the President called for stronger international action on mitigation, adaptation and climate finance.

Asif Ali Zardari further said Pakistan supports democratisation of the United Nations Security Council and opposes the induction or expansion of unelected membership in the Council. It supports greater representation through elected, non-permanent members with equitable geographical representation.

The President appreciated Secretary-General Guterres's personal solidarity following the devastating 2022 floods, including his visit to the affected areas and efforts to mobilise international assistance and facilitate the Geneva pledging process.

Speaking on the occasion, the UN Secretary-General acknowledged Pakistan's spirit of hospitality as it has provided refuge to millions. He said he has witnessed the solidarity and resilience of Pakistan in confronting terrorism.