Pakistan has started its two-year term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. Elected to represent the Asia-Pacific region, Pakistan will focus on addressing terrorism threats from Afghanistan. The country will also participate in the IS and Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee, enhancing its influence in setting the agenda on security matters.
Pakistan has officially commenced its tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, having been elected in June of the previous year to represent the Asia-Pacific region. The formal initiation of its responsibilities took place on January 1, 2023. On January 2, 2023, the Security Council conducted a ceremony where the flags of the newly-elected non-permanent members, including Pakistan, Denmark, Greece, Somalia, and Panama, were raised, signifying their roles within the Council. The event was attended by Asim Iftikhar Ahmed, Pakistan’s Additional Permanent Representative to the UN.
This marks the eighth occasion on which Pakistan has secured membership in the esteemed Council. The Dawn newspaper highlighted that with this membership, Pakistan will gain participation in the Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee. This Committee is crucial as it identifies and imposes sanctions on individuals and entities linked to terrorism under these organizations. The newspaper remarked, “This will be a valuable opportunity for Pakistan to highlight cross-border terrorist attacks from Afghanistan by groups linked to the Islamic State militant group and al-Qaeda.”
Pakistan’s position on the UN Security Council not only enhances its influence in agenda-setting and proposal presentation but also provides an advantageous platform to express concerns regarding terrorism originating from Afghanistan, particularly from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Furthermore, Pakistan may endeavor to address issues concerning the Afghan Taliban and could attempt to raise international awareness regarding India’s claims over Jammu and Kashmir. The duration of Pakistan’s term as a member of the Security Council will conclude on December 31, 2026.
The United Nations Security Council is a crucial body within the UN, responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Non-permanent members serve for a term of two years and play significant roles in decision-making processes regarding global security challenges. Pakistan’s membership is particularly notable as it allows the country to address regional security issues, especially concerning terrorism rooted in neighboring Afghanistan. Historically, Pakistan has actively participated in the Security Council, advocating for measures that align with its national interests and regional stability.
In conclusion, Pakistan has embarked on a pivotal two-year journey as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. This opportunity enhances its ability to address security issues pertinent to its national interests, particularly terrorism linked to Afghanistan. Through this membership, Pakistan aims to influence international discourse while also highlighting concerns related to regional stability and its geopolitical challenges.
Original Source: www.afintl.com
