Saima Saleem

Pakistan has successfully conducted the training fire of the indigenously developed and designed Ground-Launched Cruise Missile “Fatah-4”. The successful test marks another significant milestone in strengthening the country’s indigenous defence capabilities and strategic deterrence.

Col. Umar Shafique, Military and Police Advisor and Counsellor Saima Saleem of the Pakistan Mission briefed the participants of the U.S. Army War College about Pakistan's contribution to the UN peacekeeping as well as the country's engagement with the UN system respectively.

A tribute to valiant armed forces and resilient people of Pakistan on first anniversary of Marka-E-Haq

Speakers Term Marka-e-Haq a Defining Moment of National Strength, Unity, and Diplomatic Resolve The Pakistan Mission and Consulate General of Pakistan in New York hold a joint event to commemorate the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq New York, May 9, 2026: Marka-e-Haq was a defining moment of national strength, resilience, and strategic clarity. Pakistan’s response to India’s unprovoked aggression was firm, measured, and successful. It demonstrated Pakistan’s full capability to defend its sovereignty while acting with responsibility, restraint, and strategic maturity. The Armed Forces of Pakistan were commended for their professionalism and preparedness, with their conduct reflecting not only strength in defence of the homeland but also discipline under pressure and confidence in the face of provocation. Pakistan reiterated its consistent desire for peace; however, Marka-e-Haq conveyed a clear message that Pakistan’s commitment to peace should not be misconstrued as weakness. These views were expressed by distinguished speakers at a special event co-hosted by the Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations and the Consulate General of Pakistan in New York on the occasion of the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq. The event brought together diplomats, Kashmiri leaders, and members of the Pakistani community in New York. The event was held under the theme of “Marka-e-Haq: Commemorating Pakistan’s Victory – Resilience, Resolve and Pursuit of Justice.” Speakers emphasized that lasting peace and stability in South Asia require the peaceful resolution of all disputes, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Those who spoke on the occasion included Consul General of Pakistan in New York Mr. Aamer Ahmed Atozai, Senator Rana Mahmood-ul-Hassan, Dr. Gholam Mujtaba (Chairman, Pakistan Policy Institute), Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai (Secretary General, World Kashmir Awareness Forum), Mr. Ali Rashid (Community Leader), Mr. Taj Khan (Kashmiri Activist), and Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations. In his keynote speech, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s top envoy to the UN, paid tribute to the courage, professionalism, and sacrifices of Pakistan’s Armed Forces and the resilience and unity of the Pakistani people. He stated that Marka-e-Haq represented a defining moment in Pakistan’s recent history, reflecting national resolve, strategic clarity, and an unwavering commitment to defending sovereignty and territorial integrity with honour and dignity. The Ambassador underscored that Pakistan’s response to India’s unprovoked aggression was firm, measured, and responsible, demonstrating both military preparedness and strategic restraint. He noted that Marka-e-Haq exposed India’s aggressive designs, disinformation campaign, and false narratives, while reaffirming Pakistan’s principled approach of responding to aggression with resolve, propaganda with truth, and escalation with restraint. He further highlighted the key role of Pakistan’s diplomacy, particularly at the United Nations, in effectively presenting Pakistan’s position before the international community and cautioning against the risks of escalation. Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad stressed that durable peace and stability in South Asia require the just and peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. He emphasized that Pakistan remains a responsible and peace-loving country that seeks dialogue, stability, and peaceful coexistence based on justice, mutual respect, and sovereignty. He concluded by stating that Marka-e-Haq had further strengthened Pakistan’s credibility and international stature, reinforcing its message of peace with dignity and steadfastness in the face of challenges. Speaking on the occasion, Senator Rana Mahmood-ul-Hassan stated that Marka-e-Haq marked a historic turning point in the history of the subcontinent, demonstrating Pakistan’s military strength, national unity, and strategic resolve. He said Pakistan not only successfully defended itself against Indian aggression on the military front, but also achieved significant diplomatic and political successes by effectively presenting its principled position before the international community. He described the period as one of the finest hours of Pakistan’s diplomacy, exposing false narratives, highlighting India’s aggressive posture, and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, restraint, and responsible statecraft. The Senator further emphasized that Marka-e-Haq once again established the centrality of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute to lasting peace and stability in South Asia. He stressed that durable regional peace cannot be achieved without a just and peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. Reaffirming Pakistan’s determination to safeguard its national interests, he stated that Pakistan would protect its sovereignty, security, and legitimate share of water under the Indus Waters Treaty at all costs. In his opening remarks, Consul General Aamer Ahmed Atozai emphasized Pakistan’s enduring commitment to peace, dialogue, and regional stability. He noted that Pakistan’s conduct during Marka-e-Haq demonstrated responsibility, restraint, and preparedness in safeguarding national interests. He underscored that lasting peace in South Asia remains closely linked to the just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. He also appreciated the unwavering support and patriotism of the Pakistani and Kashmiri diaspora, particularly the Pakistani-American community in New York, and called for renewed commitment towards a stronger, more united, and prosperous Pakistan. Dr. Gholam Mujtaba stated that India’s designs against Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity were firmly rebuffed through national unity, strategic resolve, and the professionalism of Pakistan’s Armed Forces. He emphasized that Pakistan demonstrated clear primacy in both diplomacy and military planning, successfully countering aggression while projecting its principled position internationally. He further noted that these achievements must now be translated into economic strength and self-sufficiency, enabling Pakistan to emerge as a secure, resilient, and prosperous nation. Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai stated that Marka-e-Haq elevated Pakistan’s international standing by demonstrating diplomatic maturity, military capability, and national resolve. He said the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) welcomed Pakistan’s success, recognizing that a strong Pakistan is essential for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. He alleged that India’s attempt to exploit the Pahalgam incident through a false-flag narrative failed due to the leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir, the wisdom of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the professionalism of Pakistan’s Armed Forces. He further stated that India rejected Pakistan’s call for a neutral international investigation due to the hollowness of its own claims, and expressed concern over efforts to erode the Muslim identity, culture, and heritage of IIOJK. Speaking on the occasion, community leader Ali Rashid stated that Marka-e-Haq stands as a powerful example of how resilient nations respond in moments of crisis with unity, resolve, and confidence in their institutions. He emphasized that Pakistan remains committed to peace and stability while retaining full capability to defend its sovereignty and national interests. He highlighted the role of the Pakistani-American community as a bridge between Pakistan and the United States, stressing their responsibility to present Pakistan’s narrative truthfully and counter misinformation. Kashmiri leader Taj Khan stated that Marka-e-Haq is a moment of pride for both Pakistanis and Kashmiris, reflecting shared resilience and solidarity in the face of challenges to peace and stability. He highlighted the strong synergy between Pakistan’s civil and military leadership in addressing national security challenges, ensuring a coordinated and effective response. He further noted that India’s propaganda was effectively countered and ultimately failed due to Pakistan’s proactive and credible diplomatic engagement on the international stage. Counsellor Saima Saleem conducted the proceedings of the event.

Pictorial highlights of the Marka-e-Haq commemoration (2)

The Pakistan Mission and the Consulate General of Pakistan in New York hosted an event under the theme of “Marka-e-Haq: Commemorating Pakistan’s Victory – Resilience, Resolve and Pursuit of Justice”. The event brought together diplomats, Kashmiri leaders, and members of the Pakistani-American community to commemorate the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq. Marka-e-Haq marked a defining moment of national strength, resilience, and strategic clarity for Pakistan. The speakers paid rich tribute to the armed forces for their courage and valour. They stated that Pakistan’s response to India’s unprovoked aggression was firm, measured, and responsible — demonstrating the country’s full capability to defend its sovereignty with restraint, professionalism, and strategic maturity. They emphasized that Pakistan remains committed to peace, dialogue, and regional stability, while making clear that its desire for peace must never be mistaken for weakness. They underscored that durable peace in South Asia requires the just and peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Those who spoke on the occasion included Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations, Consul General of Pakistan in New York Mr. Aamer Ahmed Atozai, Senator Rana Mahmood-ul-Hassan, Dr. Gholam Mujtaba (Chairman, Pakistan Policy Institute), Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai (Secretary General, World Kashmir Awareness Forum), Mr. Ali Rashid (Community Leader), and Mr. Taj Khan (Kashmiri Activist). Please watch the proceedings of the event @Asimiahmad @PakistanPR_UN @PTVNewsOfficial @PakTVGlobal @epwing_official @RadioPakistan @MoIB_Official @ForeignOfficePk

Moderating event for Marka-e-Haq: Commemorating Pakistan’s Victory, Resilience, Resolve and Pursuit of Peace organized by the Permanent Mission of Pakistan and Consulate General of Pakistan.

#PakistanAtUN At Arria-Formula Meeting, Pakistan Urges Stronger Protection of Medical Care in Conflict - Our Press Release today

Pakistan will continue to promote dialogue, diplomacy, cooperation and peaceful coexistence, guided by the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. This commitment was also reflected in the Pakistan led unanimously adopted Security Council Resolution 2788 on strengthening mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes in July 2025 (4/5).

The adoption of Security Council resolution 2286 a decade ago reaffirmed an important principle: hospitals must heal, not become targets; doctors and nurses must be enrolled to save lives, not lose their own; and the wounded and sick must be protected, not deliberately attacked. Yet, a decade later, the reality remains deeply alarming, as evident from UN system data. In conflict situations, and in situations of foreign occupation, repeated attacks can push health systems towards collapse. Remarks by Counsellor Ms. Saima Saleem delivers national statement on “A Decade of Resolution 2286: Protecting Medical Care in Conflict Amid Evolving Threats” @SSaima11

Remarks by Counsellor Ms. Saima Saleem, At the UN Security Council Arria-formula Meeting On “A Decade of Resolution 2286: Protecting Medical Care in Conflict Amid Evolving Threats”* (6 May 2026) ***** Madam Chair, We thank Denmark, New Zealand and Spain for convening this important Arria-formula meeting to mark ten years of the adoption of Security Council resolution 2286, which reaffirmed an important principle: hospitals must heal, not become targets; doctors and nurses must be enrolled to save lives, not lose their own; and the wounded and sick must be protected, not deliberately attacked. 2. Yet, a decade later, the reality remains deeply alarming, as evident from UN system data. In conflict situations, and in situations of foreign occupation, repeated attacks can push health systems towards collapse. 3. Pakistan is proud to co-chair, together with Nigeria, Spain and Uruguay, Workstream Five on “Achieving Meaningful Protection for Hospitals in Armed Conflicts” under the ICRC’s Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law. This reflects Pakistan’s firm commitment to International Law, and our conviction that protecting medical care requires not only legal reaffirmation, but practical implementation. 4. We would like to highlight following priorities: First, all parties to armed conflict must respect and ensure respect for International Humanitarian Law, including the obligation to protect medical personnel, humanitarian personnel, transport, equipment, hospitals and other medical facilities. Second, the gap between humanitarian norms and their implementation must be bridged. Prevention must be ensured before violations occur, including through rules of engagement, safe access protocols, risk assessments, operational planning and post-incident review. Third, accountability must be strengthened through credible documentation, independent investigations and effective measures against violations, consistent with international law. The deliberate targeting of hospitals and medical facilities is a grave crime and must never be met with silence or impunity. Fourth, emerging technologies must be governed responsibly. Cyber operations against hospitals and misuse of medical data can endanger civilian lives and undermine the protection owed to medical care. Finally, the best protection for civilians is the prevention and peaceful resolution of conflicts and disputes in accordance with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, as recently reaffirmed in resolution 2788 (2025) unanimously adopted by the Council. Madam Chair, 5. When the wounded seek care, the international community must ensure that the door they enter is one of protection, not peril. Protecting medical care is a legal obligation, a humanitarian necessity and a test of our shared humanity. I thank you.

One year after Marka-e-Haq, Pakistan stands taller, stronger and more confident. We honour the courage of our armed forces and the unity of our people, who proved that a nation committed to peace can also defend its sovereignty with unshakeable resolve and change history forever!

Delivering Remarks at the UN Security Council Arria-formula Meeting on “A Decade of Resolution 2286: Protecting Medical Care in Conflict Amid Evolving Threats”

Islamabad to hold US - Iran negotiations this Friday -- Pakistan At Center Stage.

With the greatest humility, I am pleased to announce that the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, along with their allies, have agreed to an immediate ceasefire everywhere including Lebanon and elsewhere, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY. I warmly welcome the sagacious gesture and extend deepest gratitude to the leadership of both the countries and invite their delegations to Islamabad on Friday, 10th April 2026, to further negotiate for a conclusive agreement to settle all disputes. Both parties have displayed remarkable wisdom and understanding and have remained constructively engaged in furthering the cause of peace and stability. We earnestly hope, that the ‘Islamabad Talks’ succeed in achieving sustainable peace and wish to share more good news in coming days! @realDonaldTrump @JDVance @SecRubio @SteveWitkoff @SEPeaceMissions @drpezeshkian @mb_ghalibaf @araghchi

On the occasion of Good Friday, I extend sincere greetings to our brothers and sisters of the Christian community in Pakistan and members of the Christian faith across the world. May this sacred day, marked by sacrifice and reflection, strengthen our shared commitment to compassion, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.

Delivering a presentation to students of Manhattan University on the role and activities of Pakistan Mission to the United Nations.

PR No. 75/2026 Pakistan Condemns Sentences Awarded to Aasiya Andrabi, Fehmeeda Sofi and Nahida Nasreen; Calls for International Attention to Human Rights in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir 🔗⬇️ mofa.gov.pk/press-releases…

Officers of the Pakistan Mission in a group photograph with Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad after the flag-hoisting ceremony that marked the Pakistan Day 2026