In a recent occurrence, the Permanent UN Representative of Pakistan “Munir Akram” briefed a delegation of the National Defence University. The subject of focus was international and regional issues on UN agenda and Pakistan’s role at the world body. The delegation of the NDU is consistent of 12 members. Its chief instructor is currently Major General Naeem Akhtar.
Ambassador Akram explicated various issues and noteworthy observations with regards to Pakistan’s position in UN. First and foremost he highlighted this new opportunity for the nation. Pakistan is a candidate for a non-permanent seat in the Security council and given that it is elected, there will be a lot of room to promote regional peace and stability. While emphasising on the control Pakistan can possibly exercise through UNSC, Ambassador simultaneously recognised the shortcomings of the international body. He stated that besides failures and imperfections, the UN remains a useful multilateral forum especially for developing countries. Elucidating on the role of Pakistan currently and its objectives ahead, the Munir Akram explained “Pakistan’s Mission”. Delving into the specifics of this, Efforts to ensure the enforcement of Security Council resolutions concerning Jammu and Kashmir dispute, while spotlighting human rights abuses in Indian occupied territory is a priority.
He also drew attention to the “September Summit” of this year and the probable outcome of the Pact for the Future, which aims to reshape the global order. The Ambassador also shed light on this changing global order by discussing factors like technology, geo strategic conflicts, competition between the major powers, climate change etc. These aspects change the context of our world and therefore the approaches to take.
After Munir Akram’s address to the delegation, there was a Question-Answer session held. Then the delegates also visited the United Nations headquarters where they learned more about the peacekeeping operations.
