At a time when the world is reeling from conflicts, geopolitical divisions and doubts about the effectiveness of multilateral institutions, Pakistan has assumed the presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Pakistan began its one-month term on Tuesday.
This is Pakistan’s eighth term in the 15-member Security Council and its first since 2013. Islamabad has been serving as a non-permanent member since January 2025 and will continue to hold the position until 2026.
Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmed, told Dawn that the current global context is extremely complex and challenging. He said, “Pakistan is assuming the presidency of the UN Security Council at a time when global instability, conflict, complex geopolitical and strategic realities, and threats to international peace and security are increasing.”
A symbolic but strategic role
Although the presidency of the Security Council is for a month and does not carry direct executive power, the country concerned can influence the agenda setting and the course of the discussions by holding this position. This forum is diplomatically important, especially at a time when the Council has virtually stalled on many issues, including Gaza and Ukraine.
Ambassador Ahmed said, “Pakistan has always been steadfast in its support for resolving crises through peaceful means. We have taken a strong stand in favor of dialogue and diplomacy. We will bring a principled and balanced approach to the conduct of the Security Council’s work.
He added that Pakistan will emphasize transparency, inclusiveness and rapid response during its presidency and will work closely with other member states to take joint and timely action — consistent with the principles of the UN Charter and the expectations of the international community.
Ambassador Ahmed also said that Pakistan seeks to strengthen multilateral cooperation and is committed to playing a positive role in the work of the Security Council to establish global dialogue and stability.
Source: Dawn