ISLAMABAD: The ongoing war in Ukraine needs to be resolved through diplomatic efforts, credible security arrangements, and a political settlement that addresses the concerns of all involved parties, according to Sardar Masood Khan, a former Ambassador of Pakistan and former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

According to President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khan shared these views at the book launch of “Ukraine War-Beyond the Headlines: An Alternative Narrative on the Russia-Ukraine Crisis” by Munir Ahmed, held at the Russian Embassy in Islamabad. He praised the book for delving into the broader historical, political, security, and economic aspects of the conflict, highlighting its implications beyond Europe.

Khan noted that the book covers various dimensions of the war, including NATO enlargement, Russia’s security concerns, and the conflict in Donbas, among others. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of Russia’s strategic perspective while ensuring Ukraine’s sovereignty and addressing the concerns of European states.

He stressed that the focus should remain on the human cost of the conflict, advocating for the protection of civilians, humanitarian access, and the humane treatment of prisoners. Khan underscored the responsibility of major powers like the United States and Russia to maintain dialogue on strategic stability and arms control.

Khan also mentioned the importance of practical agreements, such as the Black Sea Grain Initiative, to rebuild confidence and facilitate wider negotiations. He highlighted the need for restoring stable international supply chains and markets, particularly for developing economies like Pakistan.

Discussing Pakistan-Russia relations, Khan called for enhanced cooperation across various sectors and improved connectivity, expressing optimism about the future of bilateral relations. He concluded by congratulating the author and the Russian Embassy for the event, expressing confidence in the potential for deeper engagement between Pakistan and Russia.