Pakistan warned the United Nations that escalating global conflicts must not be permitted to disrupt international maritime commerce.
Ambassador Usman Jadoon delivered these remarks during a high-level United Nations Security Council debate regarding the implications of emerging technologies and maritime security for peace and security. Greece convened the session while holding the presidency of the 15-member Council for the month of October.
Earle Courtenay Rattray, the UN Secretary-General’s Chef de Cabinet, opened the proceedings by stating that emerging technologies are reshaping maritime security and creating new risks and opportunities. Rattray noted that non-state actors have demonstrated the intent and capability to use these tools in asymmetric ways, a shift driven by artificial intelligence.
The Secretary-General’s Chef de Cabinet warned that the increasing speed and autonomy of technology systems pose risks of error, miscalculation, and unintended escalation with human consequences.
Rattray said, "Our starting point therefore must be human agency. Technology must serve humanity, not the other way around." He further emphasised that those affected and the seafarers themselves must remain at the heart of every response.
Rattray added, "The Charter of the United Nations, the UNCLOS, International Maritime Organization instruments and other applicable international law provide the foundation for our response." Ambassador Jadoon highlighted that Pakistan attaches paramount importance to maritime safety and security as a littoral state of the Indian Ocean with an overwhelming reliance on sea-borne trade.
Jadoon insisted that the legal order established by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) must be protected and promoted universally.
During the debate, the Pakistani diplomat described the current situation as a "casualty of conflict and strife." Jadoon also noted that Saudi Arabia has faced the group’s blatant aggression.
He concluded by stating, "Pakistan reaffirms its unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom and stands in complete solidarity with its leadership and people."
