UNITED NATIONS: With Pakistan abstaining, UN General Assembly voted to adopt by an overwhelming majority, resolution late Thursday afternoon on Ukraine crisis, underscoring need for peace and ensuring country's "Sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity".

Vote which came on eve of Russia's invasion of Ukraine was 141 in favour to seven against with 32 abstentions. Sponsored by more than 60 countries, it called on UN member states and international organisations "To redouble support for diplomatic efforts" to achieve peace on those terms. Resolution reiterates General Assembly's previous demand that Russia "Immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces" from Ukraine's internationally recognised borders. It reaffirms that no territory acquired by threat or use of force will be considered legal.

Explaining his vote, Pakistan's UN Ambassador Munir Akram voiced deep concern over conflict in Ukraine which has caused immense human suffering in Ukraine and massive damage to its infrastructure, economy and society. However, Ambassador Akram said that Pakistan regrets that these principles have not been universally applied and respected for instance in situation of foreign occupation and ongoing attempt at illegal and forcible annexation of Jammu and Kashmir.

In his remarks, he said that Pakistan also endorses resolution's call on member states and international organisations to redouble their support for diplomatic efforts to achieve comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 25 2023

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