Pakistan calls for peace, warns against escalation amid Kashmir tensions

Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, emphasized on May 2 that Islamabad "does not seek escalation," reiterating the country's consistent position in light of heightened tensions with India following a recent deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Speaking at a press conference at the UN headquarters in New York, Ambassador Ahmad stated that Pakistan’s leadership at all levels has made its position clear, Caliber.Az reports citing Chinese media. 

“A Pakistani envoy to the United Nations said that his country 'does not seek escalation,' a position he said has been made clear by the political leadership and at all levels.”

He added that Pakistan had formally briefed the UN Secretary-General, the President of the General Assembly, and members of the Security Council regarding the latest regional developments. Pakistan has also conveyed its perspective and concerns to various other international partners.

While emphasizing Pakistan’s preference for peace, Ahmad underlined its readiness to respond to any threat. “At the same time, we are fully prepared to defend our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said.

Condemning the use of violence against civilians, Ahmad stated, “Nothing justifies targeting of innocent civilians,” and affirmed Pakistan’s opposition to terrorism “in all its forms and manifestations.”

The ambassador also reiterated Islamabad’s desire for constructive engagement with its neighbors. “Pakistan desires for good neighborly, peaceful and cooperative relations with all its neighbors, including India, and advocates for a relationship grounded in mutual respect, sovereign equality, peaceful co-existence and peaceful resolution of all outstanding disputes.”

Warning of the broader implications of continued hostility, he noted, “the situation unfolding in the region poses a serious threat to international peace and security,” and stressed the need for restraint. “Escalatory rhetoric and unilateral actions are counter-productive,” he said.

Ahmad welcomed diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions. “The ambassador hailed the efforts that have been undertaken by the UN secretary-general and others calling for cooperation, dialogue and de-escalation, saying that these efforts and outreach should continue and merit further intensification, to prevent escalation and conflict.”

Tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors flared after an attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, located in the Indian-controlled region of Jammu and Kashmir, where gunmen opened fire on tourists, resulting in multiple casualties. The incident has renewed concerns over the volatile security situation in the region and the risk of further deterioration in bilateral relations.

By Vafa Guliyeva