Pakistan's unwavering commitment to United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions for over six decades is a testament to the country's dedication to global peace and security. With more than 200,000 troops deployed in 43 missions across the globe, Pakistan is one of the largest contributors to the UN peacekeeping operations. The country's peacekeepers have served in some of the most dangerous and challenging missions, where many have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect civilians and deliver humanitarian aid.
Over the years, Pakistani peacekeepers have served in various parts of the world. While serving in these missions, many Pakistani peacekeepers have laid down their lives in the line of duty. Despite the risks, Pakistani peacekeepers have remained committed to their duty and have carried out their tasks with professionalism and dedication. In the course of their duties, many Pakistani peacekeepers have been targeted by armed groups and have suffered casualties. Since Pakistan first began participating in UN peacekeeping missions in 1960, more than 150 Pakistani peacekeepers have lost their lives. Their efforts have been recognized by the UN, which has repeatedly commended Pakistan for its contributions to peacekeeping.
Besides its commitment to the UN peacekeeping missions, Pakistan's military leadership has acknowledged the full spectrum of challenges that the country is facing and has vowed to shoulder its constitutionally mandated responsibilities to support the resilient people of Pakistan. The security forces are undertaking intelligence-based operations in the areas along the western border, but there is a need to adopt a whole-of-the-nation and whole-of-the-government approach to eradicate the menace of terrorism on a long-term basis. The success of anti-terrorism operations in Pakistan is evident from the 8,269 intelligence-based operations conducted in the current year, resulting in the arrest or killing of 1,525 terrorists. Of these operations, 3,531 were conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in which 159 terrorists were killed or arrested, 119 were conducted in Punjab and 519 were conducted in Sindh. To rid the country of terrorism, more than 70 operations are being conducted on a daily basis.
It is essential to recognize the sacrifices made by the security personnel who have lost their lives or been injured in anti-terrorism operations. These brave soldiers have shown their commitment, resolve, and ability to end the scourge of terrorism in Pakistan. In a recent press conference, DG ISPR, Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, HI (M) said that overall 137 security personnel were martyred and 117 injured in anti-terrorism operations in the ongoing year. “The entire nation salutes them for sacrificing their lives for the country. And this [also] shows that no one should have any doubt on the Pakistan army, intelligence agencies and law enforcement agencies’ commitment, resolve and ability to end the scourge of terrorism… Our successful war against terrorism will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated,” he vowed.
Apart from the security challenges, the country is also facing numerous climate challenges that have severe implications for its economy, environment, and people. The most pressing challenge is water scarcity, making the country is one of the most water-stressed nations in the world. The situation is worsened by a rapidly growing population and inefficient water management practices, leading to acute water shortages in many parts of the country. Additionally, Pakistan is grappling with the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves, which have caused significant damage to infrastructure, homes, crops, and human life.
Pakistan's commitment to global peace and security through its peacekeeping missions, coupled with its determination to tackle climate challenges and eradicate terrorism, highlights the country's resilience and strength and its efforts towards achieving lasting peace, security, and sustainable development.

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