Among the many world leaders that spoke at the 71st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Monday, September 26, was India's Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj.
During her elaborate and pointed speech, Swaraj touched on many important topics and addressed imperative issues. She also took the opportunity to respond to Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's accusations about human rights violations in India, which he raised during his speech on Wednesday, September 21.
"I can only say that those accusing others of human rights violations would do well to introspect and see what egregious abuses they are perpetrating in their own country, including in Balochistan," Swaraj said during her speech adding that "there are nations that still speak the language of terrorism, that nurture it, peddle it, and export it."
During her speech Swaraj cited examples of Pakistan attacking India at Pathankot and Uri, and pointed out "Terrorists do not own banks or weapons factories." She further asked, "Who finances these terrorists; who arms them and provides sanctuaries?"
Swaraj's speech has given hope to Baloch Republican Party and its leader Brahumdagh Bugti, who as of 2016 is seeking asylum in India. Bugti said that he sees Swaraj addressing these issues as a "very good move" and is hoping that this would pave way for something positive in Balochistan.
Balochistan's representative to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) Mehran Marri also expressed his gratitude to India for bringing these issues to the global front.
Aside from the issues with Pakistan and the grave issue of global terrorism, Swaraj also spoke about India's commitment to UN's efforts in creating a better world for the future generations. From Agenda 2030, which calls for the eradication of all forms of poverty and inequality and tackling climate change by the year 20130, to Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Educate the Girl Child, Save the Girl Child) programme, the speech touched upon many of Indian government's recent campaigns.