ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has called for renewed international efforts to advance a political settlement in Yemen, stressing that a UN-facilitated, Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned process remains the only viable path to lasting peace.
Speaking at the UN Security Council briefing on Yemen on Tuesday, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, said Yemen stands at a critical juncture, with serious political, economic, and humanitarian challenges still confronting the country.
He noted that the relative calm witnessed in recent months, including the absence of major hostilities inside Yemen and attacks on commercial shipping, shows that de-escalation is achievable and a negotiated settlement remains possible.
Ambassador Iftikhar reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for an inclusive and sustainable political process that addresses the legitimate aspirations and concerns of all Yemenis. He said efforts to strengthen political cohesion and promote dialogue among all relevant stakeholders must continue, while noting that the Presidential Leadership Council remains Yemen’s internationally recognized government.
Pakistan also welcomed Saudi Arabia’s proposed South Dialogue, describing it as a timely and constructive initiative that could contribute positively to reconciliation efforts.
Commending the role of the United Nations and Special Envoy Hans Grundberg, Pakistan said continued engagement with regional and local stakeholders has helped preserve space for dialogue. Ambassador Asim Iftikhar highlighted the recent agreement to exchange around 1,600 detainees and prisoners as an important confidence-building measure.
He also called for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN and international NGO personnel held in illegal detention by the Houthis.
On the humanitarian front, Pakistan expressed deep concern over worsening conditions, warning that millions of Yemenis continue to depend on aid amid funding shortages, economic hardship, and declining public services.
Pakistan urged enhanced international support to sustain humanitarian operations and strengthen Yemen’s economic stability, while reaffirming the Security Council’s responsibility to work collectively for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Yemen.
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