Pakistan’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmed, has confirmed that the country’s position on Kashmir is based on UN resolutions, while stressing the importance of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan to ensure regional harmony. is
Earlier today, Ambassador Iftikhar hoisted the national flag in front of the UN Security Council Chamber on Thursday, as Pakistan began its eighth term of two years (2025-26) as a non-permanent member of the 15-member body. What did
As part of the accession ceremony, the flags of five new non-permanent members Denmark, Greece, Panama and Somalia along with Pakistan were hoisted on the UNSC stakeout at the UN headquarters in New York.
The new members replace Japan, Ecuador, Malta, Mozambique and Switzerland whose terms were expiring on 31 December 2024.
In his brief remarks, he said that Pakistan will continue to be guided by the objectives and principles of the United Nations Charter, which include the maintenance of international peace and security and the development of friendly relations among nations based on the principle of equal rights and self-determination. .
“Pakistan will always be a strong voice for people under foreign occupation and oppression and for their right to self-determination,” Ambassador Ahmed said.
He said that Pakistan is convinced that cooperative multilateralism – based on the United Nations – is the best way to deal with today’s multilateral challenges.
“We need to seriously address the root causes of long-standing and emerging conflicts, prioritize dialogue and diplomacy, and support regional and global confidence-building — to reduce tensions, stop the arms race, and to enable an environment conducive to peace, stability and development,” said the Pakistani ambassador.
He said that Pakistan will partner with fellow members to actively pursue just and peaceful solutions to issues on the Council’s agenda, and to achieve sustainable peace – from conflict prevention to peacebuilding. – Will try to make maximum use of the equipment at our disposal. .
“Our success lies in upholding the UN Charter and international law at all times and ensuring the effective implementation of the Security Council’s decisions,” Ambassador Ahmed said.
“Never forgetting our solemn duty to the millions of men, women and children caught in the conflict, Pakistan is shouldering this responsibility, fully committed to our collective efforts for a more peaceful and secure world.”
Pakistan will chair the 15-member council in July when it assumes its presidency in alphabetical order of member states’ official names. This will give Islamabad an opportunity to set the agenda of the Security Council.
In addition, Pakistan will get a seat on the Islamic State (ISIS) and Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee, which is responsible for designating individuals and groups as terrorists and imposing sanctions.
The Security Council has 15 members, of which five – Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States – are permanent. The council has 10 non-permanent seats allocated by geographic region, five of which are rotated each year.
The Security Council is considered the most powerful body of the United Nations. The Council, which is tasked with maintaining international peace and security, can make legally binding decisions and has the power to impose sanctions and authorize the use of force against states.
The tradition of the flag raising ceremony was introduced by Kazakhstan in 2018.
The Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan, Kirat Umarov, who presided over the ceremony, expressed his confidence that the five new members of the Council will be deeply focused on the important issues of world peace and security.
“As we begin a new year, it is clear that the global situation is plagued by multiple challenges and crises, from ongoing conflicts and humanitarian disasters to the adverse effects of climate change and pandemics.”
Speaking to Geo News later, Iftikhar said: “The overall security situation in Pakistan has improved significantly.”
He highlighted the present government’s commitment to development and stability and also highlighted the country’s positive economic indicators.
“We have made considerable efforts to tackle terrorism,” he said, acknowledging that the scourge of terrorism has recently resurfaced in the country.
Addressing the issue of Afghanistan, the envoy affirmed that the issue is an important item on the permanent agenda of the United Nations Security Council. “We are continuing to discuss Afghanistan at the multilateral and bilateral levels,” he said, adding, “Our position is very clear – we want a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, because regional peace is directly related.” There is stability.”
He highlighted that Pakistan is a strong country, and our nation is united, expressing confidence that the government and people will remain steadfast in their mission to eradicate terrorism.
Highlighting his role at the United Nations, he remarked, “It is a great honor to represent Pakistan, and our experienced team will live up to the expectations of the government and the nation.”
– Additional information through the APP