ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had a telephonic conversation with Josep Borell, Vice President of European Commission and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and discussed the current situation in Ukraine.
According to the Foreign Office, the two sides also focused on the Emergency Session of the United Nations General Assembly which censured Russia for its actions in Ukraine. Pakistan abstained as the 193-member UNGA overwhelmingly passed a resolution condemning the invasion of Ukraine and called on Russia to withdraw troops.
The foreign minister recalled that prime minister Imran Khan had regretted the latest situation between Russia and Ukraine, and had shared Pakistan’s hope that diplomacy could avert military conflict. Underscoring the adverse effects of conflict on developing countries, he mentioned that the prime minister had been stressing the importance of diplomatic solutions.
While expressing deep concern at the recent turn of events, the foreign minister apprised of Pakistan’s principled position, which is anchored in the promotion of peaceful settlement of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.
He underscored that Pakistan had consistently stressed the need for de-escalation, renewed negotiations, sustained dialogue, and continuous diplomacy. He emphasized the importance of a solution in accordance with relevant multilateral agreements, international law, and principles of the UN Charter.
READ MORE: Pakistan abstains as UNGA denounces Russia over Ukraine invasion
Borell shared his perspective on the situation and highlighted its impact on international peace and security as well as global economy. He acknowledged the importance of continued efforts for finding a diplomatic solution.
The United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to reprimand Russia for invading Ukraine and demanded that Moscow stop fighting and withdraw its military forces.
Russia was joined by Belarus, which has served as a launchpad for Russian invasion forces, Eritrea, North Korea, and Syria in voting against the resolution. Thirty-five members, including Pakistan, China, and India abstained. Even Russia’s traditional ally Serbia voted against it.
While General Assembly resolutions are non-binding, they carry political weight, and the vote represents a symbolic victory for Ukraine and Moscow’s increasing international isolation.
