ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep admiration for recent decision taken by Government of Ireland to recognise state of Palestine. In telephone conversation with Prime Minister of Republic of Ireland Simon Harris, PM Shehbaz felicitated him on assuming office.

He said that Ireland’s decision of recognising Palestine would send message of hope and solidarity to innocent Palestinians who were suffering Israel’s brutal atrocities.

“It would also go long way in promoting Palestine cause and would urge other countries to follow Ireland,” PM Shehbaz added. He said Pakistan has always advocated that two-state solution, in accordance with relevant UN resolutions, is only way to bring lasting peace to Middle East.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to just struggle of Palestinian people and lauded decision of ICJ to order Israel to stop its assault on Gaza and Rafah. PM Shehbaz urges UNSC, world community to enforce ICJ’s decision on Gaza.

Prime Minister Simon Harris said that Ireland has taken principled decision in consultation with other European allies as extent of Israel’s military action in Gaza could no longer be condoned in any way.

Irish premier was of view that this decision was necessary to promote normalisation in occupied territories.

Two leaders exchanged views on bilateral ties between Pakistan and Ireland and expressed their common desire to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

He expressed hope that oppressed people of Kashmir would receive similar attention from international community, as they too have been enduring brutal occupation and denial of fundamental human rights for last seven decades.

PM Shehbaz hoped that Simon Harris’s dynamism would bring major changes in Ireland. He lauded Irish decision to open its resident mission in Pakistan.

On other hand, Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that security and safety of Chinese nationals is top priority of incumbent government. Talking to delegation of representatives from Chinese companies in Pakistan, who called on him, he said all possible steps are being taken to provide foolproof security to Chinese citizens.

Published in The Daily National Courier, May, 25 2024

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