Pakistan has declined Switzerland’s invitation to the Ukraine Peace Summit due to scheduling conflicts and other considerations.
FO Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch announced at a media briefing that Pakistan would not attend the June 15-16 conference at the Bürgenstock resort near Lucerne. The summit aims to rally international support for Ukraine’s peace vision as outlined by President Zelensky.
Although 160 countries were invited, only about 90 will participate. Notable absentees include China and several nations from the Global South, who are reluctant to join a forum perceived as anti-Russia without Moscow’s participation.
Beijing has denied claims of refusing the invite based on these grounds.
With Moscow absent, expectations for significant outcomes from the summit are low.
Islamabad’s decision reflects strategic neutrality due to its historical relations with Ukraine and Russia. Pakistan calls for an immediate end to hostilities and advocates for diplomacy and dialogue to resolve the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
The spokesperson reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to UN Charter principles, emphasizing the non-use of force and respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Spokesperson Baloch dismissed recent allegations from Delhi regarding Pakistan’s involvement in a surge of violence in India-held Kashmir.
“These are unsubstantiated news reports. Indian authorities often make irresponsible claims, which are not taken seriously,” she commented.
UN Report on Palestine
Pakistan has endorsed the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry’s report on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel.
“We urge the global community to pressure Israel towards an immediate ceasefire. It’s crucial to stop the ongoing conflict in Gaza,” the spokesperson stated.
She also praised the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2735, expressing hope for a lasting ceasefire and the alleviation of Palestinian suffering in Gaza.
