New York (Web Desk): Pakistan has underscored the need for strengthening the United Nations Observer Mission in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) so that it plays a “more effective” role in preserving peace and security along the Line of Control (Loc) in the disputed Kashmir region.
In his remarks at the opening of the 2023 session of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations in New York, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN Munir Akram said Pakistan has always fulfilled its commitments in the implementation of UNMOGIP's mandate.
“We believe UNMOGIP has been and continues to play an important role in the maintenance of peace and security along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, in accordance with the relevant Security Council resolutions,” Ambassador Akram said.
Munir Akram noted that the peacekeeping is most effective when it is part of overall political strategy to resolve conflicts and build peace.
He said the goal of protection of civilians is best served by preventing the outbreak of armed conflict, addressing the root causes of conflict and finding just and sustainable political solutions through dialogue and mediation.
The envoy also underscored the need to strengthen missions and operations through strategic communications, gender mainstreaming and better protections for those who serve in them.
He stressed that peacekeeping must remain distinct from peace enforcement and counter-terrorism operations.
Ambassador Munir Akram urged that the principles of integrity and impartiality of the UN peacekeeping must be preserved.