Pakistan has called for de-escalation, a ceasefire in Ukraine and a resumption of dialogue aimed at a comprehensive and lasting peace settlement, warning that the continuation of the war is inflicting heavy costs on civilians, infrastructure, food security and energy — particularly in developing countries.
Addressing a UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Syed Haider Shah, said the continued fighting is worsening damage to civilians and critical infrastructure.
Concern Over Civilian Casualties and Infrastructure Strikes
Shah expressed concern about civilian casualties and the targeting of energy facilities, transportation networks and commercial ships, according to a report by a Pakistani news outlet.
“Continued fighting exacerbates the damage to civilians and infrastructure,” he told the Council.
War’s Ripple Effects Reach Developing Nations
The envoy stressed that the humanitarian fallout from the war, along with disruptions to food and energy security, extends well beyond the region and places additional burdens on developing economies.
“The humanitarian repercussions of the war and the disruptions affecting food and energy security go beyond the borders of the region and place additional burdens on developing countries,” Shah said.
He urged both parties to the conflict to avoid expanding the scope of fighting and to fulfil their obligations under international law and international humanitarian law.
Praise for Oleshki Evacuation Arrangements
Shah welcomed the limited ceasefire arrangements in the Oleshki region, which allowed stranded civilians to be evacuated. He praised “the efforts of both parties and the United States in facilitating the evacuation process.”
Diplomacy, Not Military Force
Warning that a military solution risks further escalation and prolonged suffering, Shah argued that a durable ceasefire could open the door to a peaceful settlement that addresses the legitimate security concerns of all parties in line with the UN Charter and international law.
“The military solution threatens to further escalate and prolong the suffering of those affected,” he said, adding that “a strong ceasefire can pave the way for a peaceful settlement that takes into account the legitimate security concerns of all parties, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and international law.”
He concluded that dialogue, de-escalation and adherence to international law represent the path to achieving comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine.
