Bilawal Bhutto Zardari discusses post-flood recovery with Antonio Guterres
ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Wednesday held a telephonic call with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres and discussed post-flood recovery in Pakistan, food security for developing countries and Black Sea Grain Initiative.
The foreign minister highlighted challenges faced by the developing countries for food security following supply chain disruptions.
“Exchanged views on reviving the stalled Black Sea Grain Initiative through constructive dialogue accommodating concerns of all parties,” he added in a tweet.
Foreign Minister Bilawal also addressed the recurring reprehensible and condemnable acts of desecration of the Holy Quran.
He urged upon collective UN action to formulate comprehensive strategy for tackling Islamophobia.
The foreign minister expressed concern about the situation in Afghanistan and outlined Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate humanitarian assistance and promote stability, including support for the UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Muhammed’s visit to Afghanistan and efforts to reverse the recent restrictions against women’s education and work imposed by the Afghan interim government.
According to a press release, the UN chief deeply appreciated Pakistan’s role as Chair of the OIC and its successful conclusion of its Chairmanship of the Group of 77 (developing countries) and China.
He also lauded Pakistan’s active participation at the multilateral forums, including at the United Nations, and decades-long hosting of Afghan refugees.
On his part, the foreign minister appreciated the secretary-general’s efforts for reform of the international financial architecture which aims to reduce the financial hardships of the developing countries who are particularly struggling to overcome the triple crisis of food, fuel and finance and assured him of Pakistan’s full support. On his Twitter handle, the foreign minister said that he thanked the UNSG for his leadership and support for Pakistan flood response. – News Agencies
