Pakistan is keen to enhance dialogue on North Korea as it starts a two-year term on the UN Security Council, expressing concern over the current lack of discussions. Ambassador Munir Akram emphasized the need to decrease tensions in the region and supported nonproliferation goals, while also highlighting challenges posed by rival nuclear powers in South Asia.
Pakistan’s ambassador to the United Nations has indicated that the country aims to re-ignite discussions concerning North Korea as it embarks on a fresh two-year tenure as a nonpermanent member of the UN Security Council. In a recent discussion with Kyodo News, Ambassador Munir Akram expressed his concern regarding the insufficient dialogue at the UN relating to the normalization of the situation on the Korean Peninsula. He stated, “We hope that in the Security Council, we will find ways of reviving the dialogue and to decrease the tensions in the whole region.”
As the composition of the Security Council changed with the beginning of the year, Pakistan assumed its place in the Asia-Pacific seat previously held by Japan. The council now includes new members Denmark, Greece, Panama, and Somalia, with terms set to conclude in 2026. Historically, Pakistan has participated in the Security Council seven times, with its last term occurring from 2012 to 2013.
Ambassador Akram affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to nonproliferation goals, citing the nation’s status as a nuclear-armed state with formal diplomatic ties to North Korea. He emphasized support for a total ban on nuclear testing, particularly when addressing concerns over potential future nuclear tests by North Korea, saying, “Those are principles which will guide our decision.” His statements came amidst criticisms of the Security Council’s lack of action regarding global crises, a challenge exacerbated since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022.
Highlighting the need for cooperation among nonpermanent members, Akram noted the importance of bridging gaps created by the divisions among the permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, France, and Britain. While advocating for a nuclear-free zone in South Asia, he clarified that Pakistan could not endorse the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons until its neighbor India relinquishes its nuclear arsenal. He stated, “While we need our nuclear capability to prevent aggression, we cannot support the ban treaty,” showcasing the complexity of nuclear diplomacy in the region as many countries remain resistant to joining the landmark treaty that took effect in 2021, including major powers like the United States and Japan.
The current geopolitical landscape surrounding North Korea has prompted various nations, including Pakistan, to reassess their diplomatic strategies. Pakistan’s unique position as a nuclear power and its relations with North Korea afford it a perspective that emphasizes dialogue and negotiation, especially in the wake of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The Security Council’s evolving composition creates a window of opportunity for Pakistan to foster meaningful discussions aimed at reducing regional tensions and addressing the ongoing risks associated with nuclear proliferation.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s aspiration to rekindle dialogue regarding North Korea highlights its commitment to international peace and security amidst a shifting geopolitical landscape. Ambassador Munir Akram’s remarks convey a sense of urgency concerning the need for increased dialogue at the UN Security Council. As Pakistan navigates its role in this complex environment, the nation seeks to balance its security needs with global nonproliferation objectives, exemplifying the intricate dynamics of international diplomacy.
Original Source: english.kyodonews.net
