Pakistan’s top diplomat to the United Nations, Munir Akram, has demanded Israel’s withdrawal from the lands of Syria and Lebanon, respect for the sovereignty of Lebanon and Syria, and an end to Israeli occupation of Palestinian land.
According to the Federal Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Pakistani Ambassador to the United Nations, Munir Akram, briefed the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East.
He condemned Israel’s occupation of the Golan Heights and called for the restoration of Syria’s territorial integrity as well as the establishment of a comprehensive government structure.
Pakistan, which began its two-year term as a non-permanent member of the Security Council this month, has pledged to uphold the UN Charter and promote just resolution of global disputes.
The Security Council briefing comes after the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, when opposition forces led by the religious-political group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched a rapid offensive.
The Pakistani ambassador demanded in the Security Council that Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity should be restored, that Israel’s occupation of the Syrian Golan Heights is illegal and null and void, as declared by the Security Council, and that the Security Council should demand Israel’s complete withdrawal.
Munir Akram welcomed the positive statements of the interim administration, calling Syria a brotherly country, but stressed the need for their practical implementation.
He said that Syria is at a critical juncture in its history, that recent political developments provide an opportunity to restore normalcy, stability and peace in Syria, however, this will depend on ensuring a peaceful transition to a new government structure that is inclusive and stable and ensures Syria’s unity and territorial integrity.
He also called for vigilance against the “terrorist threat” emanating from Syria, citing the presence of foreign fighters and concerns over the resurgence of al-Qaeda and ISIS.
Al-Qaeda and ISIS resurgence
Munir Akram said the background of some groups, and the alleged presence of foreign fighters, point to caution.
Stressing the need to address the dire humanitarian crisis in Syria, the Pakistani diplomat said that more than 70 percent of the population is in need of assistance and more than a million people have been displaced in recent weeks.
He called for full funding of the UN Humanitarian Response Plan and assistance for the safe return of Syrian refugees, including those in Turkey.
He appealed for international support in the reconstruction of Syria, emphasizing cooperation with the new administration to rebuild institutions and stabilize the country.
Munir Akram said that the role of the United Nations, especially the Security Council and the Secretary-General, will be indispensable to ensure effective action on all aspects of the challenges facing Syria.
Meanwhile, Pakistani Ambassador Munir Akram welcomed the agreement between Lebanon and Israel and urged Israel to respect the 60-day timeline for withdrawal from southern Lebanon, so as to ensure peace in the region.
He expressed hope that the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza would pave the way for a comprehensive solution, which would include the establishment of a sovereign and independent Palestinian state.
