Pakistan’s Flag Unveiled at the United Nations Security Council for Eighth Term (2025-26)
On Thursday, the Pakistani national flag was proudly installed in front of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) chamber, marking the commencement of Pakistan’s eighth term as a non-permanent member (2025-26) of the 15-member body.
As part of the formal joining ceremony, the flags of the five newly elected non-permanent members — Pakistan, Denmark, Greece, Panama, and Somalia — were hoisted at the UNSC’s stakeout at the UN Headquarters in New York.
The incoming members replaced Japan, Ecuador, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland, whose terms concluded on December 31, 2024.
Pakistan’s Representation at the UNSC
Pakistan’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, had the honor of installing the national flag during this impressive ceremony.
In his brief yet impactful remarks, Ambassador Ahmad reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the principles and purposes outlined in the UN Charter, particularly in maintaining international peace and security, fostering friendly relations among nations, and advocating for the equal rights and self-determination of all peoples.
Pakistan’s Unwavering Commitment to Global Peace and Justice
“Pakistan will remain a staunch advocate for peoples suffering under foreign occupation and oppression, and for the realization of their right to self-determination,” Ambassador Ahmad emphasized.
He further expressed Pakistan’s firm belief in cooperative multilateralism, with the United Nations at its core, as the most effective way to address the diverse and complex challenges facing the world today.
“To mitigate tensions, curb the arms race, and create an environment conducive to peace, stability, and development, we must focus on addressing the root causes of longstanding and emerging conflicts, prioritizing dialogue, diplomacy, and regional and global confidence-building efforts,” the ambassador stated.
Pakistan, he said, is committed to working collaboratively with other UNSC members to pursue just and peaceful solutions to issues on the Council’s agenda. The country will continue to leverage all available tools — from conflict prevention and peacekeeping to peacebuilding — to achieve lasting peace.
Ensuring Adherence to the UN Charter and International Law
“Our success depends on steadfastly upholding the UN Charter and international law, and ensuring the effective implementation of the Security Council’s decisions,” Ambassador Ahmad emphasized.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s solemn duty to the millions of men, women, and children affected by conflicts, underscoring Pakistan’s determination to contribute actively to collective global efforts for a peaceful and secure world.
Pakistan’s Role in the UNSC Presidency and Key Committees
Pakistan will assume the presidency of the UNSC in July 2025, as part of the rotating alphabetical presidency system. This provides Pakistan with the opportunity to set the agenda for the Security Council during its presidency.
In addition to this prestigious role, Pakistan will hold a seat on the Islamic State (ISIS) and Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee. This committee plays a critical role in designating individuals and groups as terrorists and imposing sanctions on them.
The UNSC: The UN’s Most Powerful Body
The United Nations Security Council consists of 15 members, including five permanent members — Britain, China, France, Russia, and the United States. The remaining 10 non-permanent members are elected by regional groupings, with five seats rotating each year.
The UNSC is the most powerful body within the UN, tasked with maintaining international peace and security. It holds the authority to make legally binding decisions, impose sanctions, and authorize the use of force to protect global peace.
