ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday left for New York to represent the country at the 71st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), beginning on Monday.

The prime minister is likely to highlight in his address grave violations of human rights by Indian forces in held Kashmir. He will call upon the international community and the UN to live up to their promise of ensuring the right to self-determination to the people of Jammu and Kashmir in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions.

According to a statement issued by PM Office, Mr Sharif will emphasise Pakistan’s position, role and contribution on key international issues, ranging from peace and security to development, and highlight the priorities of his government.

He will participate in the leaders’ summit on refugees convened by United States President Barack Obama. He will urge the international community to grant political attention and support for the voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and their sustainable reintegration in Afghanistan.

The prime minister will also hold bilateral meetings with a number of world leaders.

Published in Dawn, September 18th, 2016