UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has pledged to continue its role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), upholding the UN Charter and advancing global peace initiatives.
It will work alongside the other 14 members of the Council to promote these shared objectives. Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir issue aligns with the United Nations’ position, emphasizing its resolution in accordance with the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, as recognized by the UN resolutions.
In his first exclusive interview with The News, Pakistan’s newly appointed additional permanent representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar, stated, “We desire the same resolution for Kashmir as the UN, which recognizes it as a disputed territory andhas promised the Kashmiri people the right to self-determination. Pakistan remains committed to implementing this decision.” Highlighting the broader global challenges, including the ongoing Ukraine war and the devastation the Middle East, Iftikhar underscored Pakistan’s dedication to playing a constructive role in promoting peace through the UNSC framework. However, he criticised the influence of veto powers held by major global players and structural flaws within the UN system, which he blamed for the council’s inability to effectively address these conflicts.
Earlier, a flag-raising ceremony was held at the UN headquarters to welcome five newly elected non-permanent members of the Security Council for the 2025-2026 term: Pakistan, Panama, Somalia, Greece, and Denmark. Representatives from these nations, along with senior UN officials, addressed the gathering. Wearing a traditional sherwani, Asim Iftikhar raised Pakistan’s flag outside the Security Council chambers, kissed it, and proudly unfurled it — a gesture that drew attention from diplomats and journalists present.
Asim Iftikhar has taken on the role of alternate envoy to the UN following his tenure as Pakistan’s ambassador to France. He will succeed Munir Akram as Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN after Akram’s retirement. Currently, Akram is in Islamabad, while Iftikhar prepares to assume full responsibilities in New York.
In the interview, Iftikhar also elaborated on Pakistan’s position regarding reforms and expansion of the Security Council, describing it as a key agenda item during Pakistan’s tenure. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advocating for equitable representation and systemic improvements within the council.
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