"Statement by Ambassador Asim Iftikhar AhmadPermanent Representative of Pakistan to the UNAt the Security Council Meeting on the Situation in Sudan(24 August 2026) *****Mr. President,Pakistan welcomes chairing of this meeting by H.E. Foreign Minister of Denmark. It reflects the importance Denmark attaches to this issue on the Councils agenda. We also welcome the participation of Latvian Vice Minister H.E. Melbarde, and Representative of the US, Mr. BouIos in this meeting. I also thank Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo and Under-Secretary-General Tom Fletcher for their briefings also note the view expressed by Ms. Khair.2. I have Sudan map in front of me and, evidently, Sudan is a major country of strategic importance in Africa. A peaceful, stable and united Sudan is indispensable to peace, security and prosperity of Africa and wider region. Unfortunately, over the years, Sudan has been gripped by recurring conflicts, the most recent episode of which is now entering its fourth year with tragic consequences. Civilians continue to bear the heaviest cost. The situation in Darfur, the Kordofans and Blue Nile is deeply alarming, with continued fierce fighting, massive displacement, attacks on civilian infrastructure and challenges to humanitarian operations.3. Pakistan is particularly concerned by the situation around El Obeid. Reports of RSFs aggressive military posture and the risk of further escalation must be viewed against the pattern of mass atrocities committed by the RSF in Darfur, including in El Geneina and El Fasher. The Council and the international community cannot stand by as another city more civilians are subjected to such atrocities.4. We strongly condemn attacks against civilians and civilian objects, including hospitals, markets, schools, places of worship, humanitarian facilities and aid convoys. All parties must comply with international humanitarian law. Civilians must be protected, and humanitarian workers must be able to carry out their life-saving work safely and without interference. The commitments made under the Jeddah Declaration, as mentioned by Mr. Boulos as well, in this regard remain valid and the Council must call for their full implementation.Mr. President,5. The humanitarian situation requires urgent and sustained attention. Pakistan appreciates the effort of OCHA, WFP and other UN agencies, as well as local and international humanitarian workers, who continue to provide life-saving assistance under extremely difficult conditions.6. Pakistan calls for safe, rapid, sustained and unhindered humanitarian access to all those in need, including in Darfur, the Kordofans and Blue Nile. We appreciate the Government of Sudan for keeping the Adre crossing available and for facilitating humanitarian operations. We encourage continued cooperation between the UN, humanitarian agencies and the Sudanese Government to address access challenges and to ensure that assistance reaches those most in need. Funding gaps, as highlighted by USG Fletcher, must also be urgently addressed.7. But, humanitarian action alone cannot resolve this crisis. Pakistan reiterates its firm support for Sudans sovereignty, unity, independence and territorial integrity. Sudans national institutions must be preserved and strengthened. It would not be advisable for the Council to consider or support any steps that could weaken them. We reject any parallel political structures that risk fragmenting the country.8. Let me recall that the primary responsibility for maintaining stability and protecting civilians lies with the Sudanese Government. Normally, in the context of the tools available to the Council, one could have envisaged a UN peace operation with a robust protection of civilian mandate, or another arrangement to stabilize the situation. But we are not there. That is not under consideration. So, in the areas facing RSF threats, including El Obeid and other parts of Kordofan, the Sudanese Armed Forces remain the principal military capacity available to prevent further RSF advances and protect civilians from their atrocities. The return of civilians in areas retaken by Sudan Government also reflects the trust of the people in the Government. The Council must preserve the distinction between the national armed forces of a sovereign State and a militia accused of mass atrocities and genocidal violence.9. Pakistan underscores the primacy of the African Union in efforts to resolve this conflict, the only solution to which is a political one. We welcome the recent visit and engagement of the AU Peace and Security Council with the Sudanese Government. The efforts of the UN, AU, Quintet regional and other partners must be coordinated, to discourage external interference, and to enhance cooperation and synergy in support of a Sudanese-owned and Sudanese-led political process corresponding to the aspirations of the Sudanese people.10. The people of Sudan deserve peace, security and dignity. The Council must act with unity and responsibility: to protect civilians, preserve Sudans unity and national institutions, and help the Sudanese people move towards a peaceful political settlement.I thank you."