(NEW YORK) – Pakistan has warned the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that peace in South Sudan remains fragile, saying the country risks sliding back into conflict if political and security challenges are not urgently addressed.
Speaking during a Security Council debate on Monday, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, said the political process in South Sudan was “sliding backwards at a time when it needs to move forward.” He called on all parties to recommit to the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement, which he described as the foundation for peace and stability.
The ambassador stressed that hostilities must stop immediately and urged the government to release detained political leaders. He noted that trust and inclusivity were essential for national transition and the achievement of lasting peace.
Ambassador Ahmad also drew attention to South Sudan’s planned elections in December 2026, which he said represent “a ray of hope” for citizens. However, he cautioned that the elections would only be credible if conducted under fair political conditions, supported by the international community, and accompanied by broad national participation.
Highlighting the humanitarian crisis, the envoy warned that armed conflict, climate shocks, disease outbreaks, and spill over effects from Sudan were putting millions of South Sudanese at risk. He said ignoring these issues would be as dangerous as violence itself.
The ambassador also praised the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), particularly the work of Pakistani peacekeepers who have built more than 80 kilometres of protective dykes, secured humanitarian supply routes, and protected displaced families. He condemned recent attacks on peacekeepers and aid workers, describing them as war crimes that should not go unpunished.
Ambassador Ahmad further urged the international community to provide adequate resources and political support to UNMISS. He said South Sudan’s road to peace may be difficult but is achievable with strong political will, national responsibility, and international solidarity.
Points from Pakistan’s Statement at UNSC
| Issue | Ambassador’s Position | Implication for South Sudan |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 Peace Agreement | Must be upheld | Foundation for peace |
| Political Detentions | Release political leaders | Builds trust and inclusivity |
| Elections (2026) | Seen as a ray of hope | Need credible conditions |
| Humanitarian Crisis | Conflict, climate shocks, diseases worsening | Urgent action required |
| Role of UNMISS | Commended Pakistani peacekeepers | Need more support |
| Attacks on Peacekeepers | Called war crimes | Must not go unpunished |
