ISLAMABAD: Pakistan yesterday cautioned the international community against the far-reaching consequences of prolonged conflicts, warning that continued escalation in the Ukraine war could heighten the risks of miscalculation, geographic expansion and dangerous spillover effects with serious implications for international peace and security.
The warning was delivered by Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, during an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council convened at the request of Romania following reported violations of its airspace.
Pakistan's Stance on Ukraine Conflict
Addressing council members, Ambassador Ahmad reiterated Pakistan's longstanding position that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable means of achieving a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. He stressed that the continuation of hostilities risked transforming the current crisis into a much broader confrontation, carrying increasingly severe consequences for regional stability and global security.
Referring to concerns raised by Romania regarding alleged breaches of its territorial airspace, the Pakistani envoy reaffirmed Islamabad's unwavering commitment to the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of states, describing them as fundamental pillars of the international order enshrined in the United Nations Charter. He emphasised that respect for these principles is essential for maintaining stable inter-state relations and must be upheld under all circumstances.
Concerns Over Drone Incursions
Expressing concern over reports of armed drones entering the airspace of neighboring countries, Ambassador Ahmad described such incidents as alarming and indicative of the growing dangers associated with the conflict. He also voiced regret over reported civilian casualties and the destruction of critical civilian infrastructure resulting from cross-border military activities.
The Pakistani representative noted that the war in Ukraine has introduced a new and increasingly complex dimension to modern warfare through the extensive use of armed drones. While acknowledging that such technologies have significantly altered battlefield dynamics, he warned that their humanitarian consequences continue to raise serious concerns for the international community.
Call for Adherence to International Law
He underscored the need for all military operations involving advanced technologies to remain fully consistent with the principles and obligations of International Humanitarian Law, stressing that the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure must remain a paramount consideration.
Highlighting the urgency of ending the conflict, Ambassador Ahmad said that a durable peace would require renewed adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, meaningful consideration of the legitimate security concerns of all parties, and full respect for existing multilateral frameworks.
Support for Diplomatic Efforts
He further expressed support for the early resumption of dialogue efforts facilitated by the United States, describing the diplomatic channel as the most credible pathway toward a mutually acceptable settlement of the conflict. According to the ambassador, a revitalised negotiation process could help create the conditions necessary for ending the devastating war and preventing further escalation.
Ambassador Ahmad reiterated Pakistan's view that military means alone cannot deliver lasting peace. He called for an immediate and comprehensive cessation of hostilities and urged all parties to recommit themselves to meaningful negotiations and sustained diplomatic engagement.
Pakistan has consistently advocated peaceful conflict resolution through diplomacy and dialogue, maintaining that negotiated settlements remain the most effective means of addressing international disputes and preventing further threats to regional and global stability.
