ISLAMABAD: During a press conference, Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari highlighted the diplomatic achievements of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs throughout his 15-month tenure in the role. He noted that when he assumed the position of Foreign Minister in 2022, the Foreign Ministry was facing considerable pressure.
Bilawal Bhutto underscored that Pakistan’s relations with China had encountered challenges, such as being placed on the FATF grey list. However, he praised the Foreign Office (FO) for effectively addressing these issues through commitment and consistency.
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari outlined several diplomatic accomplishments during his 15-month tenure in a press conference on Wednesday:
Restoration of CPEC
Bilawal Bhutto mentioned that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was successfully restored. He highlighted the recent 10-year celebrations of CPEC, during which China’s Deputy Prime Minister participated.
Normalization of Pak-US Ties
The Foreign Minister expressed satisfaction in sharing that bilateral relations between Pakistan and the United States have been restored.
Improved Relations with China, KSA, and Gulf Countries
Bilawal Bhutto credited the Foreign Office (FO) for playing a role in mending relations with friendly and brotherly nations. He acknowledged China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE for their support during challenging times.
Condemnation of Quran Desecration
Bilawal Bhutto emphasized that Pakistan would not tolerate incidents of Quran desecration. He referred to the recent debate at the UN Human Rights Council after a Quran-burning incident in Sweden.
Raising Voices against Kashmir Atrocities and Islamophobia
The Foreign Minister noted that he raised his voice against human rights violations by the Indian Army in the occupied Kashmir region. He also addressed the issue of Islamophobia at the global level.
Response to Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Bilawal Bhutto highlighted the changed global situation due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He mentioned that the foreign ministers of Ukraine and Belarus visited Pakistan during his tenure.
Climate Resilience and Floods
The Foreign Minister expressed gratitude to the United Nations Secretary-General for the International Conference on Climate Resilient Pakistan held in January. He thanked the UN for supporting Pakistan’s efforts to build climate resilience and adaptation.
Reforms in Foreign Office
Bilawal Bhutto mentioned that he introduced change management reforms in the Foreign Office during his time as a young Foreign Minister.
The press conference showcased the Foreign Minister’s overview of his tenure and the key diplomatic achievements made during that period.
