Pakistan assumes presidency of UN Conference on Disarmament

Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistan has taken over the Presidency of the United Nations (UN) Conference on Disarmament (CD) in Geneva, assuming responsibility for leading the forum’s proceedings as the 2026 session approaches its conclusion.

Representing Pakistan, Ambassador Tahir Hussain Andrabi, Additional Secretary for Arms Control and Disarmament and spokesperson, is chairing the meetings of the Conference during the country’s presidency.

According to an official press release, Pakistan is holding the final presidency of the CD’s 2026 session and will consequently oversee the completion of its work for the year.

During its tenure, Pakistan will guide discussions on the Conference’s Annual Report and coordinate work on the related resolution to be considered by the UN General Assembly’s First Committee.

Following its assumption of the presidency, Pakistan has begun a series of consultations aimed at facilitating the Conference’s proceedings. Ambassador Andrabi chaired a meeting involving the CD’s previous presidents for the 2026 session and also engaged with representatives of various regional groups.

The UN Conference on Disarmament serves as the international community’s sole multilateral platform specifically dedicated to negotiating agreements on disarmament and arms control. Headquartered at the UN Office in Geneva, the body consists of 65 member states, including all countries that possess nuclear weapons.

Its agenda covers some of the most pressing issues concerning global security, including halting the nuclear arms race, preventing nuclear conflict and stopping the placement or use of weapons in outer space, among other matters.

Over the years, the CD and the bodies that preceded it have played a role in negotiating several major agreements that form part of the international security framework. These include the Biological Weapons Convention, the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.

Pakistan’s assumption of the presidency comes at an important time for international arms control efforts and highlights the confidence placed in the country’s diplomatic engagement.

The role also provides Pakistan with an opportunity to contribute directly to global discussions on disarmament, arms control, international peace and broader security concerns.