Islamabad: Pakistan honored the memory of 183 Pakistani peacekeepers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty under the UN flag.
'On the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, Pakistan joins the international community in paying tribute to the courage, dedication and sacrifice of United Nations peacekeepers serving for the maintenance of international peace and security. We also honour the memory of 183 Pakistani peacekeepers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty under the UN flag.
Pakistan has remained one of the leading troops contributing countries (TCCs) to United Nations peacekeeping for more than six decades. Over 270,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have served with distinction in 48 United Nations missions across the world,'
He said, 'Their professionalism, discipline and commitment reflect Pakistan's abiding faith in multilateralism and in the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. In an effort to share its extensive experience in the UN peacekeeping, Pakistan has established Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), which has imparted professional training in UN peacekeeping to officers from more than 50 friendly countries.'
Pakistan is also host to one of the oldest United Nations peacekeeping missions, the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP). Recent developments in the region underscore the continued relevance of this Mission and reinforce the need for a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
This year's commemoration takes place at a challenging moment for UN peacekeeping. Missions are operating in increasingly complex political and security environments, while also facing serious financial and operational constraints. These challenges require renewed political support, adequate and predictable resources, and realistic mandates matched with the capabilities needed for safe and effective implementation.
Pakistan believes that reform of peacekeeping is necessary, and must strengthen peacekeeping. Peacekeeping operations must become more agile, better equipped, more technologically enabled and more responsive to realities on the ground. Ending impunity for crimes against peacekeepers is essential not only to deliver justice for the victims and their families, but also to deter future attacks and protect those who serve under the United Nations.
Pakistan also takes pride in the contribution of its women peacekeepers, who have served with distinction in several missions and continue to strengthen the effectiveness, credibility and inclusivity of United Nations peacekeeping. Pakistan remains committed to enhancing the meaningful participation of women in peace operations, including in operational and leadership roles.
As a current member of the United Nations Security Council, Pakistan will continue to work with partners to strengthen peacekeeping, including through efforts to improve mandate design, enhance safety and security, promote accountability, and ensure predictable financing.
On this day, Pakistan reaffirms its unwavering commitment to United Nations peacekeeping as one of the most practical, visible and effective tools for maintaining international peace and security. We stand in solidarity with all peacekeepers serving around the world and remain ready to continue our contribution to the cause of peace.