UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan today assumed the presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of July, with Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad pledging to uphold multilateralism, international law, and collective responsibility in steering the Council’s work amid a complex global landscape.
In a statement to APP, Ambassador Iftikhar affirmed that Pakistan’s presidency would be "transparent, inclusive and responsive," as the country takes on the leadership of the 15-member Council — the UN’s principal organ for maintaining international peace and security.
This presidency marks part of Pakistan’s two-year term as a non-permanent member of the Security Council, which began in January 2025. The monthly presidency rotates among members in alphabetical order. This is Pakistan’s eighth term on the Council, having previously served in 2012-13, 2003-04, 1993-94, 1983-84, 1976-77, 1968-69, and 1952-53.
Ambassador Iftikhar, who will chair the Council’s meetings throughout July, acknowledged the serious challenges facing the international community — from rising geopolitical tensions to escalating humanitarian crises across multiple regions.
"We are fully aware of the complex geopolitical scenario, growing instability, and threats to international peace and security," he said, pointing to deepening conflicts and the urgent need for preventive diplomacy.
Pakistan will host two high-level signature events during its presidency: one focused on multilateralism and the peaceful settlement of disputes, and another on cooperation between the UN and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The events reflect what the ambassador called Pakistan's "shared priorities" with the broader UN membership: promoting diplomacy, dialogue, and regional cooperation.
Key global issues — including developments in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, and Latin America — will remain central to the Council’s agenda throughout July.
Ambassador Iftikhar has already met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to brief him on the Council’s programme of work.
"As a country that has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy, Pakistan brings a principled and balanced perspective to the Security Council's work," the envoy said, citing Pakistan’s long-standing contributions to UN peacekeeping and peacebuilding missions.
"We look forward to working with all Council members for collective, timely action in line with the Charter and the expectations of the international community," he added.
Pakistan was elected as a non-permanent member of the Council with overwhelming support in 2024, securing 182 votes out of 193 in the UN General Assembly.
