Pakistan reaffirms commitment to regional peace, dialogue

Pakistan has expressed firm commitment to continue playing its constructive role in promoting dialogue, fostering understanding and supporting all efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.

The remarks were made by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Asim Iftikhar Ahmad at the UN Security Council Meeting on Cooperation between the United Nations and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The ambassador said the deeply troubling events in the region, including the initiation of attacks against Iran have led to dangerous escalation and rising tensions. “These developments have undermined regional stability and carry serious implications for international peace and security as well as global economy and prosperity,” he said.

Asim condemned all attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. He said targeting of power plants, energy facilities, educational institutions, hospitals and other essential civilian sites is unacceptable and must cease immediately. “De-escalation and complete cessation of hostilities must be our top priority,” he maintained.

The ambassador said the ongoing attacks on the brotherly Gulf countries targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure are totally unacceptable and which we have strongly condemned. He appreciated the strategic restraint by the GCC countries in the face of such provocation and aggression. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s full support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of all GCC states.

Asim said that at this critical juncture, restraint, diplomacy and dialogue must prevail. He said Pakistan has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts towards that end.