Islamabad, February 24, 2023 (PPI-OT):Full Statement Explanation of Vote on Abstention Mr. President, Pakistan has abstained on the draft resolution contained in document A/ES-11/L.7. I wish to explain the reasons for our vote.
2. Pakistan is deeply concerned by the conflict in Ukraine which has caused and is causing immense human suffering in Ukraine and massive damage to its infrastructure, economy and society.
3. We acknowledge the considerable effort made by the co-sponsors to moderate the tone and language of the draft resolution.
4. Pakistan fully supports the resolution’s call for respect for the principle of the sovereignty, sovereign equality and territorial integrity of States and non-acquisition of territory by the threat or use of force. States cannot be torn apart by the use of force.
5. Pakistan regrets that these principles have not been universally applied and respected for instance in the situation of foreign occupation and the on-going attempt at the illegal and forcible annexation of Jammu and Kashmir.
6. Pakistan also endorses the resolution’s call on member states and international organizations to redouble their support for diplomatic efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
7. While the hostilities continue, there is an ever present danger of a further military and geographical escalation of the war. There is thus an imminent threat to global peace and security.
Mr. President, 8. While my delegation agrees with and endorses the principles and general provisions contained in the draft resolution, there are some provisions which are not consistent with Pakistan’s principled position on some of the elements covered in the resolution.
9. As a country that has seen and suffered the consequences of prolonged conflict in our neighbourhood, we attach highest priority to the immediate cessation of hostilities and the resumption of a dialogue to achieve a just and durable solution – through direct or indirect negotiations, mediation or other peaceful means. In this regard, we see an important role of the UN and the Secretary General, inter alia under Chapter VI and VIII of the UN Charter, for efforts aimed at de-escalation, renewed negotiations and sustained dialogue for a peaceful diplomatic solution.
10. Consistent with our position on the draft resolution in document A/ES-11/L.7, we have also abstained on the amendments proposed to the resolution by Belarus in documents A/ES-11/L.8 and A/ES.11/L.9. Mr. President, 11. Pakistan continues to hope that, in a constructive approach, the parties will soon accept a mutual and early cessation of hostilities.
We also hope for the resumption of a dialogue for durable resolution of the conflict based on the principles of the UN Charter and past agreements, and bearing in mind the legitimate security interests of all States. I thank you Mr. President.
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