The United Nations in Pakistan hosted a reception at Serena Hotel to commemorate UN Day 2025, marking 80 years since the founding of the United Nations.
The event brought together senior government officials, diplomats, and representatives of UN agencies and development partners to celebrate the organization’s enduring commitment to peace, justice, and sustainable development. The evening’s Chief Guest, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, underscored Pakistan’s longstanding partnership with the UN, reaffirming the government’s commitment to multilateralism and collective progress. He commended the UN’s contributions to Pakistan’s development agenda and highlighted the importance of continued collaboration in addressing shared global challenges.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohamed Yahya, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan, praised the country’s generosity and resilience, noting the strength of the partnership between Pakistan and the UN system. “If GDP was measured in hospitality, Pakistan would be the richest country in the world,” he remarked to warm applause, emphasizing the hospitality, solidarity, and partnership that define Pakistan’s engagement with the international community.
Mr Yahya highlighted that the UN’s work in Pakistan spans over 20 resident agencies, collectively supporting national efforts in areas such as health, education, labour rights, climate action, and sustainable economic growth. He stressed that the organization remains deeply committed to helping Pakistan achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to advancing human development through inclusive cooperation.
Geir Tønstol, Country Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO), served as Master of Ceremonies for the evening, setting the tone with humour and reflection. “The world looks very different today than it did in 1945,” he noted. “But as we celebrate UN at 80, we also welcome reforms that make the UN better equipped to meet today’s challenges.”
The programme featured short videos highlighting the UN’s eight-decade journey and its long-standing presence in Pakistan since 1947.
As diplomats and guests mingled, the message of the evening was clear: in a rapidly changing world, Pakistan and the United Nations remain steadfast partners in pursuit of peace, progress, and shared prosperity.
Westminster International School Launches Youngpreneurs Initiative, Inspiring Future Innovators
Today, Westminster International School celebrates a pivotal moment as students from grades four and five introduce the Youngpreneurs Launchpad. This ground-breaking initiative challenges young minds to think beyond traditional career paths, fostering critical 21st-century skills such as negotiation, communication, financial management and entrepreneurship.
