Pakistan assumes presidency of UN Security Council
Washington: Pakistan has assumed the presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), marking the country’s eighth term on the 15-member body and the first time since 2013 that it is holding this position.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Pakistan takes on this symbolic yet strategic role at a time when the world faces escalating conflicts, deepening geopolitical divisions, and growing mistrust in multilateral institutions. The presidency comes during Pakistan’s current two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the Council, which began in January 2025 and will continue through the end of 2026.
Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmed emphasized that Pakistan is assuming this role amid a period of profound global uncertainty, marked by intensifying conflicts, complex strategic environments, and grave threats to international peace and security.
Although the presidency rotates monthly and holds no executive authority, it provides an opportunity to shape the Council’s agenda and tone. At a time when the UNSC is struggling with paralysis over major crises such as Gaza and Ukraine, such leadership becomes especially significant.
In this climate of eroding confidence in multilateralism, Pakistan’s brief leadership of the Council will be closely watched on the international stage. Ambassador Asim Iftikhar reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, dialogue, and diplomacy. He stated that Pakistan will bring a principled and balanced approach to the Council’s work and remains committed to strengthening multilateralism and enhancing cooperation with other member states.
He further stated that during its presidency, Pakistan aims to promote transparency, inclusivity, and efficiency. “We will work in close coordination with fellow Council members to enable collective and timely action that aligns with the UN Charter and the expectations of the international community,” he added.
