I thank ASG Miroslav Jenca and ASG Masuya for their briefings. Pakistan remains deeply concerned by the continuing hostilities and devastating consequences of this conflict, particularly its humanitarian dimensions.
The conflict in Ukraine- which is now into its 4th year- has exacted a harrowing human cost — with millions displaced, lives and livelihoods shattered, and widespread civilian infrastructure damage. The protracted conflict in Ukraine has vividly laid out that war spares no one, and its ripple effects threaten peace and stability far beyond the region.
Despite the diplomatic efforts at the start of this year, including Security Council Resolution 2774 and multiple limited ceasefire understandings, tangible progress has remained elusive. While prisoner exchanges and talks in Istanbul offer glimmer of hope, it is unfortunate that the ongoing violence, death and destruction from relentless attacks, has continued to cast a shadow over the nascent and fledgling peace efforts. It is imperative that the echoes for peace must be heard. Peace in Ukraine is long overdue. The calls for ending this conflict should not be allowed to go unheard or masked by the continued drums of war.
In this context, Pakistan reiterates the following urgent imperatives:
First, the protection of civilians is a must. The International humanitarian law is clear, and it is vital that it must be upheld unconditionally. Targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure under any pretext cannot be justified.
Second, military solution and continued escalation is akin to pursuing a dead end. Continued attacks and the recent surge in these attacks has only deepened the suffering of people affected by this conflict. Sustainable peace demands de-escalation, ceasefire and unwavering commitment to dialogue.
Third, diplomacy is the only path forward. We welcome the talks between the Russian Federation and Ukraine. These, however, must translate into tangible de-escalation and steps such prisoner swaps, should catalyze broader political negotiations, aimed at ending this conflict.
Pakistan has been a consistent advocate for peace. From the very outset we have called for de-escalation and giving primacy to dialogue over fighting. Only a sincere and meaningful dialogue which addresses mutual security concerns of all sides, is anchored in the in the principles of UN Charter and international law, and respects the relevant multilateral agreements can help lead to a peace, which is durable, just and long-lasting.
Pakistan stands ready to support all regional and international efforts, that pave the way for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict.