The flag of Pakistan was raised outside the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) chamber on Thursday, signifying the start of Pakistan’s eighth term as a non-permanent member for 2025-2026.
The ceremony, held at the UN Headquarters in New York, included the flag-raising of five newly elected non-permanent members: Pakistan, Denmark, Greece, Panama, and Somalia. These countries succeeded Japan, Ecuador, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland, whose terms ended on December 31, 2024.
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s Alternate Permanent Representative, hoisted the flag and delivered a speech emphasizing Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the principles of the UN Charter, such as upholding international peace, promoting equal rights, and supporting the right to self-determination.
In his remarks, Ambassador Ahmad highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding advocacy for the rights of oppressed populations and its dedication to fostering multilateral collaboration to address global challenges. He stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of conflicts, encouraging dialogue, and promoting confidence-building at both regional and global levels.
He reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to pursue peaceful resolutions to conflicts on the Council’s agenda, utilizing measures like conflict prevention, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding to achieve sustainable peace. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to upholding international law and implementing UNSC decisions to alleviate the suffering of people in conflict zones.
In July, Pakistan is set to assume the presidency of the UNSC, allowing it to influence the Council’s priorities. Additionally, Pakistan will serve on the ISIS and Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee, responsible for identifying individuals and entities as terrorists and implementing sanctions against them.
The UNSC consists of 15 members—five permanent and ten non-permanent—and is authorized to make binding decisions, impose sanctions, and authorize the use of force to maintain global peace and security.
