Honourable Prime Minister of Pakistan,

Atadjan N. Movlamov, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps

Excellencies,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen 27 March, 2024

Assalam-0-Alaikum and Ramzan Mubarak,

It is my great privilege to welcome the Prime Minister of Pakistan to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for this special inter- faith iftar dinner. I am pleased to note that this is the first visit of the Prime Minister to any government Ministry since its assumption of office.

I am grateful for the presence of the Islamabad-based diplomatic community at this inter-faith iftar dinner. I would like to express our deep appreciation for their contribution in promoting dialogue and cooperation between their countries and Pakistan.

For Muslims across the world, this holy month holds a special religious and social significance. It is a time for reflection, unity, and compassion. As we gather here tonight, representing diverse nations and cultures, it is important to appreciate the power of dialogue and cooperation in fostering mutual understanding and harmony.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Pakistan's foreign policy is deeply rooted in the principles peace, equality, and justice. Pakistan will continue to champion multilateralism, peace, development and mutual prosperity.

As you may be aware, Pakistan is a candidate for the non- permanent seat of the UN Security Council for the year 2025-26.

Our Security Council candidature has been endorsed by Asia Pacific Group of countries. We are extremely grateful to the countries that have already expressed their support and seek the invaluable support of the others as well.

During its term at the Council, Pakistan will promote the Council's mandate for the maintenance of international peace and security and help revitalize the Council to address contemporary challenges; reach across political divides: and promote multilateralism.

In this holy month of peace and fasting, we must not forget the people of Gaza who are faced with starvation and war awaiting an end to the last six months of bloodshed and misery. Time has come for an urgent and unconditional ceasefire, as called for by the United Nation Security Council.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Our collective dream of peace and prosperity cannot be realized without settlement of outstanding regional disputes. It is therefore, important to resolve longstanding disputes on the Agenda of the UNSC including Palestine and Kashmir.

This week's terror attack in Moscow and the dastardly attach in Besham remind us that terrorism is a collective and persistent threat for everyone. Pakistan will continue to promote regional and global partnerships in combating this menace. We will never cower to terrorists who threaten our constitutional and societal values.

The scourge of Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hate is a serious threat for our common humanity. It is critical for the international community to take effective action to combat religious intolerance and counter Islamophobia.

Together, we have a unique opportunity to promote dialogue and understanding among nations, regardless of our differences.

Pakistan stands ready to build bridges and partnerships with countries around an agenda of peace.

Ramzan Mubarak.

Thank you.