New York: Pakistan has articulated a strong commitment to enhancing regional integration and global cooperation through adherence to the United Nations (UN) Charter, emphasizing the role of regional organizations in promoting peace, security, and economic development.
According to Pakistan Mission to the United Nations, during a debate in the UN Security Council on cooperation between the UN and various regional and sub-regional organizations, Ambassador Munir Akram, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, underscored the importance of such collaboration. He criticized the pursuit of regional dominance by certain states, which he believes undermines the potential of organizations like SAARC. Ambassador Akram also highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as key examples of projects fostering regional cooperation and connectivity.
The ambassador further advocated for the expansion of global integration through partnerships with regional organizations such as the African Union (AU), Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). He welcomed the establishment of the AU-AL-OIC Trilateral Commission, aligning it with Pakistan’s goals of strengthening ties among regional and cross-regional entities. Ambassador Akram laid out a series of recommendations for regional integration, including respect for sovereignty, preventing dominance by a few states, supporting less developed economies, and prioritizing connectivity and sustainable infrastructure.