ISLAMABAD, April 30 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday held phone talks with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to discuss recent developments in South Asia.
During the conversation, Sharif affirmed that Pakistan condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, while highlighting the significant sacrifices rendered by the country in the global war against terror, according to a statement released by the prime minister's office.
Terming the recent Indian accusations against Pakistan "baseless," Sharif categorically rejected any attempt to link Pakistan with the Pahalgam incident, reiterating his call for a transparent and neutral investigation into the incident.
He said that India's weaponization of the waters of the Indus Basin was unacceptable, noting that water was the lifeline of 240 million people of Pakistan, adding that the country will defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity with full force in case of any misadventure by India.
The prime minister also reaffirmed his country's unwavering commitment towards fostering international peace and security as a responsible member of the international community.
For his part, the UN chief appreciated Pakistan's efforts for peace in South Asia, saying the world could not afford any escalation in the region at this crucial time, according to the statement.
The UN chief spoke separately by telephone with Sharif and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday, said Stephane Dujarric, his spokesman, at a daily briefing.
At least 25 people were killed and several others wounded on April 22 after unknown gunmen fired at them in the Indian-controlled Kashmir, Indian media reported. Enditem
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