"Peacekeeping needs both political backing and a political strategy. The Council must provide clear direction, sustained political support and adequate resources. Host-State consent must also translate into practical cooperation, including freedom of movement, access and support for mandate implementation. At the same time, the primacy of politics must be understood in its proper context: peacekeeping cannot substitute for a political process, but neither should the principle of primacy of politics become an argument for inaction. In fact, the pursuit of political solutions and peacekeeping should not be mutually exclusive. Even when political processes stall, peacekeeping can contain violence, protect civilians, preserve ceasefires and create space for politics to resume. We must use this key instrument to create and maintain space for politics.Statement by Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, at the Security Council Debate on United Nations Peacekeeping OperationsPakistan's statement below"
During a recent Security Council debate on United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, the Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, articulated critical insights regarding the operational effectiveness of peacekeeping missions. Emphasizing the intertwined relationship between political strategies and peacekeeping, he underscored the imperative need for clear directives, sustained political backing, and appropriate resource allocation from the UN Council. This highlights Pakistans proactive stance in contributing to global peace and security.
Ambassador Ahmad emphasized that host-state consent is vital for successful peacekeeping operations. However, this consent must evolve into practical cooperation, including ensuring freedom of movement and unimpeded access for peacekeeping forces. The achievement of these goals is crucial for effectively carrying out mandated missions which focus on protecting civilians and containing violence. Rather than viewing peacekeeping and political solutions as exclusive to one another, Ahmad advocates for an integrated approach where peacekeeping efforts can support and revitalize stalled political processes.
Pakistan's approach to peacekeeping resonates positively within the international community, as numerous member states echo the call for a stronger political framework in peacekeeping operations. Ambassadors from other nations acknowledged the significance of Pakistan's stance, advocating for collective action to reinforce peacekeeping strategies that prioritize both political collaboration and operational effectiveness. The global response underscores a growing consensus that real progress requires a balanced understanding of the relationship between peacekeeping and politics, validating Pakistans contributions.
As the international community grapples with complex conflicts, the need for effective peacekeeping becomes increasingly evident. Ambassador Ahmad's statements signal a pivotal moment for discussions surrounding the evolution of peacekeeping operations. By urging the UN to develop clear policies and align its resources with on-ground realities, Pakistan is positioning itself as a country committed to fostering international peace. The challenge lies in maintaining momentum toward tangible action that bridges peacekeeping with political strategies. Looking ahead, nations must collectively harness peacekeeping not simply as an isolated endeavor but as a vital tool for generating a conducive environment for lasting political resolutions.
