Pakistan assumes presidency of UNSCS for July

Pakistan has taken over the presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of July, marking its eighth term on the 15-member body and its first presidency since 2013. 

Islamabad began its current two-year tenure as a non-permanent member in January 2025, which will last through the end of 2026, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

While the UNSC presidency rotates monthly and does not confer executive power, it allows the presiding country to shape the Council’s agenda and guide discussions. This role takes on added significance during periods of international deadlock on critical issues such as the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.

In a social media statement, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar expressed that Pakistan assumes the presidency “with humility and a firm commitment” to the principles of the UN Charter. He highlighted the intensifying conflicts and humanitarian crises worldwide and underscored Pakistan’s dedication to addressing these challenges.

During its presidency, Pakistan plans to chair two high-level sessions, including the quarterly open debate on the situation in Palestine. This session is expected to draw considerable global attention amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmed, described the current global landscape as one marked by “severe uncertainty, escalating conflicts, complex geopolitical and strategic situations, and serious threats to global peace and security.”

Ambassador Ahmed emphasised that the presidency provides Pakistan an opportunity to promote a “principled and balanced approach” to the Council’s deliberations. He reaffirmed the country’s longstanding commitment to peaceful dispute resolution, dialogue, and diplomacy, pledging to prioritise transparency, inclusiveness, and effectiveness during Pakistan’s stewardship of the Council.

“Our aim is to facilitate collective and timely actions in accordance with the UN Charter and the aspirations of the international community,” he added, underlining Pakistan’s determination to strengthen the multilateral system and foster cooperation among member states.

By Sabina Mammadli