Message from the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, H.E Mamnoon Hussain on the occasion of the United Nations Day (2014-10-24) Nearly seven decades ago on this day, the international community stood unified to endorse a common dream with the coming into force of the Charter of the United Nations. The international community inter alia expressed its resolve to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war; to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbors; to unite its strength to maintain international peace and security; and to promote economic and social advancement of all peoples. These ideals are as relevant today as they were seven decades ago. Not only has the United Nations achieved a lot towards realizing its ideals over the years, it remains associated with the hopes and expectations of billions of people across the globe. Today, the UN has a critical role to play in addressing numerous challenges facing the world including climate change; poverty; inequity and inequality; violent extremism and terrorism; Islamophobia and religious stereotyping; upholding human rights; energy crisis; transnational organized crime; spread of contagious diseases; and above all, challenges to international peace and security as a result of numerous emerging as well as long festering international disputes. On the occasion of the United Nations Day, I would like to reiterate Pakistan’s strong commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter as well as its resolve to work with the international community to advance peace and prosperity for all. Over the years, Pakistan has made an invaluable contribution towards international peace and security and has been a leading military and police contributor for the UN peacekeeping operations. Since 1960, nearly 154,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have made important contributions towards peace, security and stability in 42 UN peacekeeping operations in 24 countries across the globe. Today I would like to recall and pay rich tribute to the sacrifices of over 140 Pakistani peacekeepers who have laid down their lives while fulfilling the hope and expectations associated with the Blue Helmets and while advancing the cause of world peace. Earlier this month, another Pakistani peacekeeper laid down his life in the Central African Republic (CAR) while protecting civilians under difficult and challenging circumstances. At the same time, I would like to recognize and salute the sacrifices of over 3000 men and women associated with the UN who have lost their lives over the years in all parts of the world while furthering the goals and ideals of the United Nations. Pacific settlement of disputes is one of the cardinal provisions of the UN Charter. Pakistan is committed to build a peaceful neighborhood through the just and peaceful resolution of all outstanding disputes including that of Jammu and Kashmir in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions that promise the right to self-determination to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The United Nations and the international community have a permanent responsibility in realizing that promise. We also hope that UN will play its role in finding a just and lasting solution of the Palestinian issue. We should continue our collective efforts to strengthen the United Nations on the principles of enhanced representation, democracy, transparency and accountability to enable the world body to more effectively address the global challenges of today. On this day, I would like to reiterate Pakistan’s full support and cooperation for upholding the UN Charter and the multilateral system that the UN stands for. We stand ready to work with all Member States to achieve the many new and unfulfilled goals of the United Nations. Islamabad 24 October,2014
Posted on: Sat, 25 Oct 2014 04:38:20 +0000