The assertion by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that the appointment of Pakistani nationals at important slots at the United Nations means confidence in the world in Pakistan’s counterterrorism qualifications is a strong and justified statement. It is not only an articulation of the progressive growth in Pakistan’s compliance measures against terrorism but also signals a new phase of international trust in its claim to be a constructive and responsible global player. These appointments, the product of years of policy reform, operational commitment, and diplomatic outreach, deserve attention not only because they are symbols but because they represent real obligations and expectations.
This moment is a major turning point for a country that has both suffered the effects of terrorism and been the target of international attention for decades. For nearly two decades, Pakistan has waged one of the toughest and deadliest fights against terrorism on its soil. Solidified in a former hub for Jihadist elements to a partner in international counterterrorism policy has not been happening by coincidence or skin deep. It is the culmination of years of commitment, policy reorientation, and a relentless diplomatic effort to change how the world talks about itself.
A History of Struggle and Sacrifice
Pakistan has been in the grip of terrorism since the years that followed the Afghan-Soviet war and the geopolitical upheaval of the late 20th century. As militant groups dug into the region, Pakistan was confronted with an internal insurgency that worsened after 9/11. The war on terror that turned Pakistan into a frontline state led to the martyrdom of tens of thousands of its civilians, soldiers and police officers. Economic infrastructure broke down massively, and the social fabric was constantly stressed.
Despite these overtures, Pakistan slowly started to course correct. From military campaigns like Operation Zarb-e-Azb and Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad to intelligence-led “operations” aimed at sleeper cells, the state articulated a multi-pronged strategy to combat terrorism. This structure has been formally institutionalized through legislative amendments and the formation of the Anti-Terrorism Act and bodies like the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) to deal with both ideological and operational aspects of the menace of extremism.
From Suspicion to Acceptance
But for years, the world had looked skeptically at Pakistan. Accusations of duplicity in its counterterrorism posture, anxiety about terror financing, and misgivings about state complicity colored foreign policy conversations involving Islamabad. This mistrust resulted in repeated sanctions, bad press and inclusion in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, which damaged economic credibility and investment confidence.
Real action finally started to make the tide turn. Pakistan actively collaborated with FATF and other international institutions and followed a 27-point strong action plan aimed at dealing with terror financing, money laundering and regulatory loopholes. The country’s exit from the FATF grey list next year was a significant diplomatic and policy victory for it and clearly showed the world that Pakistan meant business, at least in action if not in word.
The appointment of Pakistan’s representatives to UN bodies dealing with counterterrorism should be viewed within this broad perspective. These aren’t just pleasantries or diplomatic favours but recognitions of a job well done, of a closer fit with international norms out there. They are, in the words of the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, justifications of trust, trust that is hard-won and profoundly consequential.
Significance of UN Appointments
As the world’s leading multilateral body, the United Nations has an important leadership role in the global counterterrorism agenda. From the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) to dedicated committees such as the 1267 Sanctions Committee, these entities are in charge of defining international norms, suggesting or imposing sanctions, organizing intelligence-sharing networks and assisting member states in acquiring relevant capacities.
The point is, when Pakistani professionals are hired to such part-time positions as legal advisers, technical-safety specialists or senior representatives, it is an indication that the country is no longer regarded as some kind of untouchable object of international counterterrorism mandates, but as a participant willing to share the burden of them. It proves that Pakistan has the know-how, the skills and the worldly wisdom to direct global policy instead of being reactive to it.
The appointments also have strategic ramifications. Because the country is gaining credibility at the UN, it is gaining power to help shape the language of resolutions, the framing of terrorist threats and the enforcement of international norms. This influence is potentially invaluable in promoting a balanced approach, differentiating between terrorism and legitimate political struggle, which Pakistan has been advocating in the regional conflicts.
A New Diplomatic Horizon
There is more to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s statement than grandstanding; it is a diplomatic message to friends and skeptics. It reads: Pakistan has reached a turning point. It is poised to lead, not just follow; to take part in global security discussions as more than an afterthought. It enhances Pakistan’s position at platforms such as the UN General Assembly, OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) and SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization).
Moreover, these nominations also help negate adverse propaganda spewed by enemy states. India, for example, has frequently sought to diplomatically isolate Pakistan by claiming cross-border terrorism. Worldwide confidence in Pakistan’s counterterrorism capability undermines these initiatives as it strengthens Islamabad’s stand that it is known for peace and is standing for peace in the region and the world.
That has positive implications for Pakistan’s economic diplomacy. With confidence in the country rising, investment, tourists and trade can now follow. They are more likely to cooperate with those partners they trust to abide by the rule of law and to help stem transnational threats. Therefore, these appointments also pave the way for Pakistan’s realization of economic incentives and developmental goals.
Building on the Momentum
But this international confidence has to be built on with continued action. The war on terror is not even close to being won. Complex challenges, including digital radicalization, cyberterrorism, and lone-wolf attackers, merit ongoing vigilance and adaptation. Pakistan can not be complacent and rely solely on achievements made, but rather continue to develop into tech-capable players and build regional collaboration and public/private PPPs to combat emerging threats.
At home, the priority needs to be preventing the reintroduction of extremist narratives. This calls for revamping the education system, promoting interfaith harmony, economic mainstreaming and civil engagement. It also requires a delicate balance, security operations have to be robust but never outside the spirit of human rights or due process. It is not just based on the number of militants killed in action but instead on the number of lives protected, communities secured, and peace sustained by Pakistan’s commitment to counterterrorism.
And, transparency needs to be a pillar of policy going forward. The bright light of international attention that comes with UN appointments also means more focus and attention. Pakistan must agree to share data, report progress and open its systems to independent inspection. This transparency will strengthen the confidence that the international community has already started to put in the country.
Regional Leadership and Responsibility
With attentiveness not unringed by the plausible submissions of credence in the direction of Pakistan, it now has the opportunity,and the obligation,to host regional security dialogues. South Asia has become a tinderbox for possible conflict with terrorism as an instrument of proxy. Suppose Pakistan is to consolidate its regional leadership in the field of counterterrorism. In that case, it must propose cooperative mechanisms that allow intelligence sharing, conflict resolution, and joint capacity building.
Afghanistan, in particular, is a major area of concern. With the Taliban back in power and a delicate security environment, Pakistan has little option but to adopt a nuanced yet proactive role in Kabul. With its long history of cultural and political affinities with Afghanistan, Pakistan can act as a facilitator in bringing peace and stopping the cross-border spread of terrorism.”
Likewise, the relationship can be utilized to develop counter-terrorism frameworks, covering border controls, anti-narcotics operations and breakdown of terror financing networks in the region, including China, Iran and Central Asian Republics.
The Role of Civil Society and Media
Lastly, a full counterterrorism strategy needs to address the role of media and civil society. Pakistan’s youth, clerics, academicians and journalists all need to be involved in the business of constructing that narrative. The war on terror is an ideological war. Winning hearts and minds is still the objective.
The media must report responsibly and thoughtfully, not sensationally, and not dividing but uniting. Yes, but universities must educate students to think critically and embrace pluralism. Clerics need to promote tolerance and show up the theological fallacies utilized by the extremists. These kinds of soft measures are the long-term answers to stop terrorism from taking root in the future.
Trust Earned, Not Given
As Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in celebrating those appointments as a sign of global confidence in Pakistan’s counterterrorism credentials, this was a national bounty years in the making. It confirms that, notwithstanding challenges in the past, Pakistan has taken definitive measures to change its perception and reality in the comity of nations.
Yet this trust is not a one-time stamp of approval but an active, dynamic belief. Pakistani leadership must demonstrate integrity, responsibility and willingness that there will be no future for radicalism. Watch, and more importantly, listen, world. Pakistan has a place at the table. And it must be used responsibly, honorably and for the world’s peace.