06/16/2026
Statement by Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad
Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN
During the 6thIGN Meeting to discuss the Co-Chairs Revised Elements Paper
(15 June 2025)
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Co-Chairs,
My delegation commends your constructive approach and the skillful manner in which you have guided the work of the IGN during this session.
Co-Chairs,
I align myself with the statement delivered by Italy on behalf of the Uniting for Consensus (UfC) Group, and offer the following observations in my national capacity.
One, we agree that the Revised Elements Paper reflects the Co-Chairsâ understanding of convergences and divergences among Member States without prejudicing the official positions of various groups and states. The paper may serve as a good basis to advance the work of the IGN at the next session.
Two, while the Pact for the Future is an important document, the mandate for the IGN has been conferred by the General Assembly with two documents constituting the bedrock of our process: General Assembly Resolution 53/30 and Decision 62/557. The Elements Paper should prominently reflect the continued primacy of these documents.
Three, progress towards a consolidated model must emerge from convergence across all five clusters as they are intrinsically interlinked. A selective reference to one or two clusters must be avoided. There is currently no common understanding regarding the elements of a consolidated model and the general call during this session was to work towards that end. Convergence must lead to consolidation. It cannot be the other way around. Importantly, there is no linkage between a consolidated model and text-based negotiations. These points need to be appropriately reflected in the introductory section and in the section of general divergences.
Four, we appreciate the efforts of the Co-Chairs in putting together a âbridging proposalâ of âfixed regional seatsâ. It would have been beneficial to have the elements of this proposal in writing, in detail, before the IGN session that was devoted to discuss it.
Moreover, as per our understanding, such fixed regional seats were never proposed as âpermanent categoryâ. Furthermore, the expansion of veto is neither desirable nor feasible, in our view. Whether the occupants of these seats represent regions or serve in national capacity is an important question, that requires clarity. We request that necessary amendments may be made in the paper.
Five, in para-2 of the section on general divergences, concerns regarding the veto, extend beyond the principle of effectiveness that is mentioned there. The veto also raises issues relating to sovereign equality, transparency and accountability. These principles should also be reflected in the text.
Six, regarding categories of membership, we suggest revising the formulation that a âsignificant numberâ of delegations support expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories. Many Member States have yet to express positions, while some belong to more than one group, making such characterization imprecise. Moreover, different variations or characteristics of permanent seats are being advanced, that do not reflect a common position or the same understanding.
Seven, we need to accurately reflect the differences in approach about the permanent seats, between countries which seek such seats for themselves, and the African proposal, which is a demand on behalf of the entire continent endorsed by the African Union. Distinctions between these two positions must be prominently reflected.
Eight, in paragraph 3 on general convergence, we suggest replacing âkey parametersâ with âguiding principles,â consistent with the terminology of Action 39. Similarly, the reference to a âreview clauseâ should be moved to divergences, as no consensus exists on its inclusion.
Finally, we welcome the Paperâs comprehensive treatment of regional representation. A central objective of reform must be to redress existing imbalances by enhancing representation for Africa, Asia, Latin America, small states, SIDS, the Arab Group, and OIC members.
Co-Chairs,
We trust that our suggestions will be duly considered in finalizing the Revised Elements Paper. Pakistan seeks âReform for All, Privilege for Noneâ - a principle that must anchor our collective efforts towards ensuring that reform is rooted in genuine consensus and corresponds to the interests of all.
I thank you.
đşwatch full statement đ
https://youtu.be/2pMgKMWAVaw?si=xFDRNamjTDWg8sdq
