While Ambassador Munir Akram did make a speech at the UNGA, Pakistan abstained from the voting on a resolution that deplored Russia’s military action against Ukraine. Russia had sought guarantees from the West and the US not to expand NATO and avoid conducting military drills at its borders. He also mentioned that Prime Minister Imran Khan had regretted the latest situation between Russia and Ukraine, and said that Pakistan had hoped that diplomacy could avert military conflict. “We have since repeatedly stressed the need for de-escalation, renewed negotiations, sustained dialogue, and continuous diplomacy,” he further said in a three-and-half minute speech at the UN General Assembly session. “The Government of Pakistan is most concerned about the safety and welfare of Pakistani citizens and students in Ukraine.

Source: The Nation March 03, 2022 00:20 UTC