"Statement by Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan to UN,At the Security Council Briefing on the Situation in South Sudan/ UNMISS(6 August 2026) *******Madam President,I join others in thanking the SRSG Ghebo, RJMEC chair and civil society briefers for their briefing.2. Pakistan takes note of the latest report of the Secretary-General on the situation in South Sudan. It is concerning that political tensions, continued hostilities, intercommunal violence and deteriorating humanitarian situation are placing further strain on an already fragile transition.3. In this connection I wish to make following four points:First, Revitalized Agreement remains the only viable and consensual framework for peace in South Sudan. Differences concerning its implementation or amendment must be addressed in good faith through its established mechanisms and dialogue.Pakistan takes note of the Governments intention to hold elections in December 2026. Elections remain an important element in bringing the transition to a legitimate conclusion. However, as the SG report states important political, legal, security and financial requirements remain outstanding. These gaps need to be filled.Second, we are deeply concerned by the continued fighting in Jonglei, Upper Nile and other parts of the country. We call on all parties to implement an immediate and sustained cessation of hostilities, refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and return to dialogue. Spillover effects of the conflict in Sudan are also a matter of concern.Third, it is clear that UNMISS plays an indispensable role in the stability of South Sudan. We pay tribute to the mission personnel who continue to perform their mandate under difficult circumstances. Despite serious operational constraints, the Mission continues to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian assistance, support local dialogue and strengthen early-warning and conflict-prevention mechanisms.Pakistan notes that UNMISS is currently operating with 9,176 military personnel against an authorized ceiling of 12,500. Given the deteriorating security situation and the Missions extensive protection responsibilities, the authorized troop ceiling should be fully utilized for deployment. We reiterate that peacekeeping mandates, assigned by this Council, must be matched by adequate capabilities, predictable financing and sustained political support.At the same time, we urge the Government of South Sudan to facilitate the Missions freedom of movement and remove all impediments to mandate implementation.Finally, Pakistan welcomes the continued engagement of the African Union, IGAD, the AU High-level Ad Hoc Committee and former President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania. These efforts should be closely coordinated through the AU-IGAD-United Nations framework and translated into sustained political engagement with all parties.Madam President,4. Pakistan will continue to support UNMISS and all efforts aimed at advancing lasting peace, stability and prosperity in South Sudan.I thank you"
In a recent briefing at the UN Security Council, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Pakistan's Deputy Permanent Representative, addressed the urgent challenges faced by South Sudan. The situation remains dire, as persistent political unrest, intercommunal violence, and a deteriorating humanitarian crisis threaten the fragile transition of the nation.
Ambassador Jadoon emphasized that the Revitalized Agreement is the only viable framework for establishing peace in South Sudan. It's crucial that any differences regarding its implementation be worked through established channels and with a spirit of cooperation. The Pakistani representative acknowledged the South Sudanese government's plans to hold elections in December 2026, which are vital for legitimizing the transition. However, significant political, legal, security, and financial prerequisites remain unmet, highlighting the need for for proactive gestures to fulfill these gaps.
Continued hostilities, especially in regions like Jonglei and Upper Nile, were concern points raised by the ambassador. He called for all factions in South Sudan to engage in an immediate and durable cessation of hostilities, advocating for dialogue to solve existing tensions. The spillover effects of the conflict from neighboring Sudan also raise alarms regarding regional stability.
Pakistan noted the indispensable role of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), commending its personnel for their brave efforts in fulfilling their mandate amidst challenging conditions. Despite operational limitations, UNMISS remains critical for civilian protection, humanitarian support, and conflict-prevention mechanisms. With only 9,176 military personnel on the ground against an authorized 12,500, Pakistan called for full utilization of the troop ceiling to ensure effective protection and peacekeeping operations, stressing that maintaining peacekeeping mandates must be accompanied by adequate resources and support.
The ambassador also highlighted the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders, acknowledging the efforts of the African Union, IGAD, and other entities in promoting peace and stability in South Sudan. Coordinated initiatives through the AU-IGAD-United Nations framework are deemed essential for fostering lasting dialogue among all parties.
Pakistan remains committed to supporting UNMISS and all initiatives aimed at fostering enduring peace and prosperity in South Sudan. As challenges mount, it is more critical than ever to ensure that the international community rallies around a constructive engagement strategy for South Sudan. The emphasis on cooperation and adherence to established peace frameworks will be pivotal in shaping a positive future for this nation.
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!