## A New Term, a Familiar Role: Pakistan Returns to the UN Security Council
**Archyde** sits down with Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the UN, to discuss the nation’s eighth term on the security Council.
**Archyde:** Ambassador Ahmad, Pakistan has begun its eighth term on the UN Security Council. What are the country’s primary goals for this term?
**Ambassador Ahmad:** Pakistan remains steadfastly committed to the purposes and principles enshrined in the UN Charter. Our core focus will be on maintaining international peace and security, fostering amiable relations among nations based on equal rights and self-determination, and addressing global challenges collaboratively.
**Archyde:** This term sees Pakistan holding a seat on the ISIS and Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee. How significant is this role in combating terrorism?
**Ambassador Ahmad:** The fight against terrorism continues to be a top priority. Our participation in the Sanctions Committee reflects our commitment to target terrorist financing and networks, working alongside the international community to disrupt their operations.
**Archyde:** Pakistan will assume the presidency of the Security Council in July. What key issues do you see the Council prioritizing during this time?
**Ambassador Ahmad:** We believe it is crucial to address the root causes of conflicts, both new and longstanding. Prioritizing dialog and diplomacy, and supporting confidence-building measures at regional and global levels, will be critical to achieving sustainable peace.
**Archyde:** Many argue that the Security Council needs reform to better reflect the multipolar world we live in. What are your thoughts on this?
**Ambassador Ahmad:**
Pakistan has long championed a more inclusive and representative Security Council. We believe that genuine reform is essential for the council to effectively address the complex challenges of the 21st century.
**Archyde:** what message would you like to convey to the international community about Pakistan’s commitment to the UN and its goals?
**Ambassador Ahmad:** Pakistan firmly believes in the power of multilateralism and the central role of the UN. We stand ready to work with all Member States to build a more peaceful,prosperous,and sustainable future for all.
**Archyde:** Thank you for your time, ambassador.
Readers, what role do you think Pakistan will play on the Security Council this term, and what are the moast pressing issues facing the body today? We encourage you to join the conversation below.
## archyde Interview: Pakistan’s Return to the UN Security Council
**Host:** Welcome back to Archyde Tonight.Today, we have the honor of speaking with Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the United Nations, about Pakistan’s significant return as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. Ambassador,welcome to the show.
**Ambassador Ahmad:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Pakistan began its eighth term on the Security Council just this year, marking a defining moment for the contry on the global stage. What does this eighth term symbolize for Pakistan?
**Ambassador Ahmad:** This eighth term underscores Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to multilateralism and our belief in the power of collective action to address global challenges. It positions us to actively contribute to maintaining international peace and security and fosters friendly relations among nations based on the principles of equal rights and self-determination [1].
**Host:** You mentioned global challenges. What are some of the key issues Pakistan hopes to prioritize during its tenure?
**Ambassador ahmad:** We are acutely aware of the complexities facing the world today, from persistent conflicts and the threat of terrorism to humanitarian crises and climate change.Pakistan will strive to prioritize dialog and diplomacy, advocating for peaceful resolutions to conflicts and working towards building trust at regional and global levels [1].
**Host:** Pakistan will also hold a seat on the ISIS and al Qaeda Sanctions Committee. How significant is this role in the fight against terrorism?
**Ambassador Ahmad:** This position is crucial as it allows us to directly participate in the effort to designate terrorists and impose sanctions, significantly hindering their ability to operate and finance their activities.
**Host:** Looking ahead, Pakistan is scheduled to assume the presidency of the Security Council in July 2025.What are your expectations for Pakistan’s leadership during this important period?
**Ambassador Ahmad:** The presidency presents a unique possibility for Pakistan to shape the Council’s agenda and amplify the voices of those often marginalized. We aim to promote dialogue on key global issues, foster constructive solutions, and ensure that the security Council remains responsive to the evolving needs of the international community [1].
**Host:** what message would you like to convey to the international community about Pakistan’s commitment to the UN Security Council and its purpose?
**Ambassador Ahmad:** Pakistan remains dedicated to working collaboratively with all member states to uphold the principles enshrined in the UN Charter. We believe that through open dialogue, cooperation, and a shared commitment to peace and security, we can overcome the challenges of our time and build a more just and lasting world for all [1].
**Host:** ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, thank you for your insights and for sharing your vision for Pakistan’s role on the UN Security Council. We appreciate your time.
**Ambassador Ahmad:** Thank you for the opportunity.
*[1]: Source: Pakistan, Somalia, Panama, Denmark and Greece elected to UN Security Council. [https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/06/1150726](https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/06/1150726)*
