"Statement by Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad,Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN, At the UN Secretary Council Emergency Meeting on Haiti(28 August 2026)*********Madam President,We appreciate the convening of this session, at the request of Panama, Colombia and the United States.I thank SRSG Carlos Massieu, and Acting ASG Indrika Ratwatte for their briefings, apprising this Council, yet again, about the multidimensional tragedy that continues to unfold in Haiti.2. We join the Secretary General in condemning the latest attack by Haitian gangs, in Kenscoff, utterly shocking as it was, resulting in loss of precious lives and destruction of property. We note with serious concern the taking of hostages by these gangs, threatening the lives of those held in captivity. We extend our deepest condolences and sympathies for the families of victims and our strong solidarity with Haiti.3. Regrettably, the situation in Haiti has seen little improvement. The latest incident is a grim and stark reminder of the long drawn precarious security situation faced by the Haitian people with atrocious attacks by gangs targeting the civilians that disproportionately affect women and children.Madam President,4. Last year, responding to the urgent security challenges the Security Council authorized the deployment of Gang Suppression Force (GSF) to assist Haitian authorities in overcoming the security crisis. Only last month, the Council was briefed on the various aspects related to GSF, including the factors impeding its full deployment as per the envisaged timelines.5. In this context, we underscore the need to overcome logistic challenges that GSF continues to face in terms of its full deployment of security operations. Timely deployment of GSF, with necessary resources is critical to deter the gangs and help instil the much-needed sense of security among the population.6. We also take note of the Standing Group of Partners efforts to mobilize support for the GSF, and assist Haiti in advancing a comprehensive DDR strategy to address the root causes of prolonged violence.7. It is important to note that the unrestricted access of Haitian gangs to modern and sophisticated weapons supply remains a constant bane. For a secure environment to take hold, the flow of illegal weapons into Haiti must stop. This requires effective regional and international efforts to fully implement provisions of 2653 Sanctions.Madam President,8. While international support for Haiti, including from this Council, remains crucial, a durable solution requires addressing the underlying multifarious drivers of instability. This would require a Haitian led and Haitian owned response, aligned with its domestic circumstances. We hope that all political stakeholders in the country would work together, with unitary sense of purpose towards this end.9. In solidarity with Haiti and its people, Pakistan will continue to play a constructive role in supporting all efforts aimed at assisting Haiti achieve long-term stability, progress and prosperity.I thank you"
On August 28, 2026, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad of Pakistan delivered a statement at the UN Security Council's emergency meeting concerning the ongoing crisis in Haiti. Convened upon the request of Panama, Colombia, and the United States, the discussion centered around the escalating violence prompted by Haitian gangs, particularly highlighted by a recent shocking attack in Kenscoff.
Ambassador Ahmad expressed deep condolences for the victims of gang violence and highlighted the continuous security challenges in Haiti. The humanitarian crisis is profoundly affecting civilians, with women and children disproportionately impacted by these atrocious acts. He acknowledged the Security Council's previous authorization of the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), emphasizing the logistical hurdles that must be overcome for its full deployment. Prompt action and resource allocation for the GSF are crucial to restoring a sense of security among the Haitian population.
The Ambassador underscored the significance of regional and international efforts to halt the influx of illegal arms into Haiti, as the gangs' access to sophisticated weapons exacerbates the turmoil. He pointed out that while the international support, including from the Security Council, plays a vital role, a long-term resolution requires a Haitian-led approach. This thought reflects a commitment to fostering domestic ownership of political solutions and urging all stakeholders in Haiti to unite for a shared purpose in addressing the root causes of the violence.
With an emphasis on Pakistan's commitment to support Haiti towards stability and prosperity, Ambassador Ahmad assured collaboration in efforts that are aligned with Haitis unique circumstances. He reiterated the importance of comprehensive disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) strategies that address the systemic drivers of violence. As Pakistan continues to advocate for stabilization in Haiti, the call for solidarity remains vital for long-term progress.
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