Islamabad, January 14, 2023 (PPI-OT):Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Aamir Khan has said that the safety and security of peacekeepers is critical to delivering on peacekeeping mandates in conflict affected countries. He made these remarks while speaking at a meeting of the Group of Friends of Security Sector Reform, held at the UN Headquarters in New York. Referring to the tragic loss of six Pakistani peacekeepers in a helicopter crash in March 2022 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ambassador Khan underlined the need to bring to justice the perpetrators of this heinous crime.

He further stressed that mobilizing greater support and resources for the peacekeepers were crucial elements for restoring peace and stability in conflict situations. Reaffirming Pakistan’s strong commitment to UN Peacekeeping in Africa, Ambassador Khan highlighted the support extended by Pakistani peacekeepers to reforming the security sector in Mali, Democratic Republic of Congo and the Central African Republic.

He noted that the success of SSR depends on consistent political support, regional approach and ownership of the host government, and cautioned against imposing an SSR agenda on a reluctant national authority. He concluded by requesting the UN Secretariat to hold regular briefings to the member states on the developments relating to SSR, particularly the support provided to peacekeeping missions.

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