On Thursday, the Pakistani national flag was raised at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as Pakistan commenced its eighth term as a non-permanent member for the 2025-26 period.
As part of the ceremony, the flags of the five incoming non-permanent members, including Pakistan, Denmark, Greece, Panama, and Somalia, were installed at the UN Headquarters in New York. These new members took the place of Japan, Ecuador, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland, whose terms concluded on December 31, 2024.
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Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s Alternate Permanent Representative, raised the flag, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to the principles of the UN Charter. He highlighted the country’s role as a strong advocate for the rights of oppressed people and its dedication to promoting international peace and security. Pakistan plans to actively collaborate with fellow members to tackle pressing global challenges, from conflict prevention to peacebuilding, and strive for durable peace.
Pakistan will also take over the presidency of the UNSC in July, shaping the Council’s agenda and playing a key role in addressing global issues. Additionally, Pakistan will join the Islamic State (ISIS) and Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee, helping to designate individuals and groups as terrorists.
The UNSC, made up of 15 members, is the most powerful UN body, responsible for maintaining peace and security worldwide. The flag installation tradition, which began in 2018, was led by Kazakhstan’s permanent representative, Kairat Umarov, who expressed confidence that the new members would bring valuable insights into the global peace and security agenda.