Discuss Prime Minister Imran khan’s speech at United Nations general assembly in context of IR theory

‘Neo Liberalism’?

Imran Khan’s maiden speech at UNGA consisted on varied issues. He urged the member nations to take
the issue of climate change seriously. He said “rich countries who contribute the most to greenhouse gas
emissions must be held accountable.” He then shed light on the issue of money laundering and how it has
become a global problem. He suggested that “the rich countries must show political will” to put an end to
this problem. In the light of neoliberalism Imran Khan’s speech was well balanced as he spoke not just
about military and security relations. He emphasized and called upon global leadership to act on social
issues such climate change and Islamophobia. He requested for global cooperation above the bias of
national self-interest. Moreover, highlighting the issue of Isamophobia he emphasized on how Muslim
community around the world was marginalized and how it lead to even more radicalization of Muslims
after 9/11. This is against the true essence of neoliberalism as it calls for a greater cooperation through
mutually developed organizations such as UN.

He kept referring to state of Medina and how it was the first well fare state in the world that treated its
citizen above any biases of religion, creed, color and nationality. Lastly, speaking about issue of Kashmir
and recent revocation of article 370 by India he said “I am not threatening here about a nuclear war; it is
a worry. It is a test for the United Nations. You are the one who said Kashmir right to self-determination”.
As India’s behavior in Kashmir in past has been against the chartered resolution of UN that gives the right
of self-determination to Kashmiris. By requesting UN to act and take the Indian atrocities in Kashmir
seriously Prime Minister Khan has called for greater cooperation amongst UN member states on conflict
resolution through peaceful means. As this issue transcends the borders of the neighboring countries. This
also goes on to explain why states are much more varied in their agenda and how neoliberals capture
that.