United Nations, New York: In a strategic move to bolster its bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, Pakistan has formalized diplomatic relations with six island nations. The announcement comes as the election for the coveted seat is set to take place next week.
Ambassador Munir Akram, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, underscored the importance of these new alliances, stating, “In elections, every vote is crucial. Each vote holds equal weight.” This sentiment reflects Pakistan’s meticulous efforts to secure broad international support.
The Caribbean island of Saint Lucia is the latest addition to Pakistan’s growing list of diplomatic partners, following the establishment of ties with St. Kitts and Nevis, the Marshall Islands, the Commonwealth of Dominica, the Dominican Republic, and the Republic of Kiribati. Many of these nations are part of the West Indies Cricket Association, a region with which Pakistan shares strong cricketing ties.
In a ceremony held in New York on Tuesday, Ambassador Akram and Saint Lucia’s Ambassador Menissa Rambally signed the joint communiqué formalizing diplomatic relations between their respective countries. Ambassador Akram highlighted the mutual benefits of this new relationship, noting that both nations have been collaborating in multilateral forums, including the Commonwealth. He emphasized that these formal ties would serve as a foundation to expand bilateral cooperation.
Ambassador Rambally highlighted the symbolic connection between the two nations, mentioning that former West Indies cricketer Darren Sammy, who hails from Saint Lucia, is an honorary Pakistani citizen known for his praise of Pakistan and its hospitality.
Pakistan is vying for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the term 2025-26, representing the Asia-Pacific group. Ambassador Akram expressed confidence in Pakistan’s potential role, stating, “Pakistan’s election to the Security Council as a non-permanent member would provide an opportunity to promote international and regional peace and stability.”
Pakistan’s commitment to international peace is well-documented through its extensive contributions to UN peacekeeping operations. Since 1948, Pakistan has participated in 46 peacekeeping missions across 29 countries. Tragically, 168 Pakistani peacekeepers have lost their lives in the line of duty, underscoring the nation’s dedication to global peace and security.
As Pakistan gears up for the upcoming election on June 6, these newly established diplomatic relations signify a strategic enhancement of its international alliances, aimed at securing a pivotal role in the UN Security Council and furthering its commitment to global peace and stability.