ISLAMABAD: While the world is focused on the continuing turmoil inside Iran, there appears to be little interest in the continuing four-year-old war in Ukraine.
Pakistan’s policy in this European conflict, which sees “relentless hostilities leaving behind a trail of death, destruction, economic losses and immense human suffering”, is to be clearly neutral, calling for what it says is the “supremacy of dialogue”.
“From the outset, Pakistan’s position has been anchored in an unwavering conviction -- the supremacy of dialogue as the only viable path for lasting peace. Now, more than ever before, the overwhelming global opinion is on the side of ending this conflict through peaceful means. This can only be achieved through a sustained, meaningful and structured dialogue,” said Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, at the UNSC briefing on Maintenance of Peace and Security of Ukraine.
Giving examples, the ambassador pointed out that diplomacy and genuine engagement in the past have delivered as was seen in the case of Black Sea Grain Initiative in July 2022. Earlier, in Istanbul, Ukraine and Russia were seemingly very close to an agreement, within weeks of the start of the conflict.
“Security Council Resolution 2774 of last February was another opportunity that should have been seized in earnest by all sides for a swift end to the conflict. Resolution 2788 adopted in July further reinforced the importance of pacific settlement of disputes,” the ambassador reminded the UNSC. Of importance, underlines Pakistan, is the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure which remains a fundamental obligation and the foundation of the principles of International Humanitarian Law, which must be upheld fully by all sides.
“We are alarmed by the recent intensification in fighting with escalation in attacks from both sides, further worsening the already dire humanitarian situation. Such actions not only perpetuate the conflict but also undermine trust and the ongoing efforts for peace. The reported damage to the Embassy of Qatar, in Kyiv, is regrettable. Protection of diplomatic missions and the safety of its personnel is an obligation under international law,” reminded the ambassador.
Appearing optimistic, he pointed out that the window of peace was still there. “We commend the efforts by many countries, particularly the United States, for the resolution of this conflict, giving primacy to dialogue. We hope that all sides would make full use of the ongoing diplomacy, demonstrate genuine political will and engage constructively to make meaningful strides towards a peaceful and negotiated settlement of the conflict, starting with an immediate ceasefire,” he added.
Pakistan hopes that these efforts would lead to a just and lasting settlement, in line with the UN Charter, international law and relevant multilateral agreements, acceptable to all sides, that corresponds to the security interests of Ukraine and Russia and ensures peace and stability in Europe.
“The imperative to deliver millions from agony must remain paramount. For this, the path forward should be guided by sagacity, mutual understanding and our collective concern for humanity. Pakistan supports all efforts aimed at resolving the issue peacefully, in a comprehensive and durable manner,” stressed the ambassador.
