ISLAMABAD, Monday, May 05, 2025 (WNP): United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres held a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday to discuss the evolving security situation in South Asia, marking their second such exchange within a week.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the prime minister appreciated the UN chief’s continued engagement and diplomatic outreach, welcoming his calls for de-escalation and the importance of avoiding confrontation in the region.

During the call, Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s proposal for an independent, transparent, neutral, and credible investigation into the recent Pahalgam incident, expressing concern that India had yet to provide any evidence while continuing to engage in provocative rhetoric and war-mongering.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of mounting tensions.

The prime minister also voiced serious concerns over what he described as India’s attempts to politicize international financial institutions in a bid to undermine Pakistan’s economic interests.

Secretary-General Guterres briefed the prime minister on his ongoing diplomatic efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. He assured continued engagement with all relevant stakeholders to defuse tensions and encourage dialogue.

The conversation reflects heightened diplomatic activity as regional and international actors seek to prevent further escalation between South Asia’s nuclear-armed neighbors.