Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s address at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) last week has set a new record as the most-watched speech on the UN’s official YouTube channel, according to data released by the UN’s Centre for Public Opinion Research. The speech garnered over 137,000 views, surpassing those of other world leaders on the platform.
The Prime Minister’s Office announced on Monday that “Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s address has resonated globally, becoming the top speech watched on the UN’s YouTube channel.” In addition to its YouTube success, the speech attracted more than 1.6 million views on Al Jazeera’s TikTok account, further amplifying his message.
In his impactful speech, Prime Minister Sharif condemned Israel’s military actions in Gaza, describing them as a “genocidal war.” He stated, “The world cannot stand by as innocent Palestinian children and women are massacred. What is happening in Gaza is a humanitarian catastrophe. This is not a conflict; it is a genocidal war.”
The Prime Minister also addressed the long-standing Kashmir dispute, criticizing the international community’s inaction. He emphasized the urgent need for resolution, declaring, “Kashmir remains a bleeding wound on the conscience of the world. The silence of global powers has allowed the suffering of millions of Kashmiris to continue.”
Additionally, Sharif highlighted the global climate crisis, focusing on Pakistan’s vulnerability to natural disasters. He urged world leaders to take action, saying, “Pakistan, a victim of climate change, has seen unprecedented floods and devastation. It is time for the global community to fulfil its responsibilities and support those affected by the climate crisis.”
The speeches of world leaders were broadcast live on the UN’s official YouTube channel, allowing global audiences to engage with the pressing issues raised by the Pakistani premier. This widespread viewership underscores the international interest in the challenges faced by the global community today.
