Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan commended Ireland’s recent decision decision to recognise Palestine. The announcement, made during a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Shehbaz and his Irish counterpart Simon Harris, comes amidst escalating tensions in the region due to ongoing Israeli aggression.
Ireland, alongside Spain and Norway, has pledged to recognise Palestine formally next week, a move that has drawn ire from Israeli authorities. Prime Minister Shehbaz hailed Ireland’s decision as a beacon of hope and solidarity for the Palestinian people who continue to endure the harsh realities of Israeli oppression.
Expressing optimism about the impact of Ireland’s decision, Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized its potential to galvanize support for the Palestinian cause on the global stage. He urged other nations to follow suit, highlighting the importance of a unified stance in advocating for a just resolution to the longstanding conflict.
During the conversation, Prime Minister Shehbaz extended congratulations to Prime Minister Harris on assuming office, noting his youth and dynamism as promising assets for Ireland’s future. The leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution in line with relevant UN resolutions, emphasizing the necessity of lasting peace in the Middle East.
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In a significant development, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) recently ordered Israel to cease its military offensive in the besieged Gaza enclave, particularly in Rafah city. Prime Minister Shehbaz welcomed the ICJ’s decision, underlining the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people.
Turning to regional dynamics, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed hope that the international community would extend similar attention to the plight of the oppressed Kashmiri people. He underscored the decades-long struggle for fundamental rights faced by Kashmiris under a brutal occupation.
In response, Prime Minister Harris affirmed Ireland’s principled stance, taken in consultation with European allies, against Israel’s disproportionate military actions in Gaza. The decision to recognize Palestine, he noted, aims to promote normalization and justice in the occupied territories.
The leaders also discussed opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Ireland, particularly in trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. Prime Minister Shehbaz welcomed Ireland’s decision to establish a resident mission in Pakistan, envisioning it as a catalyst for deeper engagement between the two nations.
In a gesture of goodwill, Prime Minister Shehbaz extended a warm invitation to Prime Minister Harris to undertake an official visit to Pakistan, further solidifying the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
