Islamabad: As a precursor to UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Meet, a Preparatory Meet was organised at Islamabad from 30 – 31 August 2023. The meet was co-hosted by Pakistan and Japan on the theme of Safety and Security of Peacekeepers. The meet was attended by delegates from different countries, Senior Officials from UN and members of diplomatic community in Islamabad.

COAS General Asim Munir, NI (M) attended the closing session of Conference as Chief Guest and during his remarks, he commended the role of United Nations in maintenance of international peace and highlighted increasing challenges and unprecedented levels of threats being faced by Peacekeepers. He urged UN to enable Peacekeeping Missions to be more effective in addressing the complex threats while assuring the safety and security of Peacekeepers.

COAS further highlighted that Pakistan aspires to create a region where peace prevails and trade, transit and investment generate prosperity for all the states of south, West and Central Asia. He also called on Security Council and the UN Secretary General for peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir Dispute in accordance with the Security Council Resolutions and the wishes of Kashmir people.

Prior to COAS remarks, Under Secretary General for department of peace operations thanked Pakistan for hosting this conference and making invaluable contributions for global peace.

While addressing the participants, Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani recalled Pakistan’s longstanding commitment to UN peacekeeping, spanning over six decades, as a tangible manifestation of its contribution to the maintenance of international peace and security. The Foreign Minister paid tribute to the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives in the noble cause of peacekeeping, including 171 Pakistanis. He underscored the need to ensure a safe and secure environment for UN peacekeepers who tirelessly safeguard peace around the globe.