UNITED NATIONS – July 1, 2025: Pakistan today assumed the presidency of the United Nations Security Council for the month of July, with Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad vowing to lead with a focus on transparency, inclusiveness, and responsiveness in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.
Speaking to reporters at the UN headquarters in New York, Ambassador Iftikhar said Pakistan’s leadership of the Council would emphasize multilateralism and adherence to international law, particularly at a time when the global landscape is marked by intensifying conflicts and growing humanitarian crises.
“This is a moment of great responsibility,” he said. “We are fully aware of the complex geopolitical realities and the need for principled, collective action. Pakistan’s presidency will reflect our longstanding commitment to diplomacy, dialogue, and peace.”
The presidency of the Security Council rotates monthly among its 15 members and is currently part of Pakistan’s two-year non-permanent term, which began in January 2025. This marks Pakistan’s eighth term on the Council, with previous stints in 2012–13, 2003–04, 1993–94, 1983–84, 1976–77, 1968–69, and 1952–53.
As Council president, Ambassador Iftikhar will preside over meetings and help steer discussions on critical global issues throughout the month. Pakistan has also scheduled two signature events during its presidency: one focused on multilateralism and the peaceful resolution of disputes, and another highlighting cooperation between the UN and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
“These are issues close to Pakistan’s heart,” the ambassador noted. “We’ve always believed in preventive diplomacy and the vital role of regional partnerships in maintaining international peace and security.”
In the coming weeks, the Council’s agenda will include discussions on ongoing crises in the Middle East, developments across Africa and Asia, and key concerns in Europe and Latin America.
Ambassador Iftikhar has already met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to share Pakistan’s proposed programme of work for July. He said Pakistan would approach the presidency with a spirit of cooperation and a deep sense of responsibility, informed by its own experience and long-standing contributions to UN peacekeeping missions.
“Pakistan was elected to the Council with the support of 182 out of 193 UN member states — a testament to the trust the international community has placed in us,” he said. “We are committed to justifying that trust by working with all Council members to promote peace, security, and stability around the world.”
