Karachi, October 25, 2026
First Lady Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari has called for the equal application of international law, climate justice and greater investment in children while addressing the United Nations Day 2026 celebrations in Karachi.
According to the Press Information Department, Asifa stressed that international humanitarian law must be respected and civilian lives protected, regardless of nationality, geography or political circumstances. She referred to the suffering of civilians in Gaza and emphasised the need to uphold the principles of the United Nations equally for all.
Speaking about climate change, she highlighted the devastating impact of Pakistan’s 2022 floods and called for climate justice. She noted that countries and communities contributing the least to climate change often suffer its most severe consequences, making international cooperation essential.
The First Lady also reaffirmed her commitment to polio eradication, saying every child deserves protection from preventable diseases. She appreciated the efforts of frontline health workers and international organisations, including the World Health Organization and UNICEF, in supporting Pakistan’s efforts to achieve a polio-free future.
Emphasising children’s nutrition and education, Asifa expressed support for the World Food Programme’s ShareTheMeal campaign, which aims to provide 150,000 nutritious school meals to children across Pakistan. She noted that school meals can improve school attendance, enhance learning and contribute to healthier futures for children.
Recalling the legacy of her mother, former prime minister Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, she highlighted the importance of international cooperation, dialogue, education for every child and equal opportunities for women.
The event was organised by the United Nations in Pakistan in collaboration with the Government of Pakistan and in partnership with the Government of Sindh. It featured an exhibition highlighting Pakistan’s contributions to UN peacekeeping, alongside information booths, career opportunities and cultural performances.
Asifa called for continued collective efforts to strengthen international cooperation and build a more peaceful, just and compassionate world.
