THE current term of Pakistan as a nonpermanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will end in December. The seat provided Islamabad with an opportunity to take part directly in discussions on some of the most difficult conflicts and security issues in the world that have been lingering for long. There have been a number of rather significant developments during the term.

In June, the UNSC had adopted without dissent a resolution concerning accountability for crimes committed against UN peacekeepers, with 153 countries co-sponsoring it. The resolution also paid tribute to the 183 Pakistani peacekeepers who have died while serving under the UN flag.

The harder test came when the UNSC stood divided. On Sept 17, Pakistan abstained from a US-sponsored resolution aimed at extending the mandate of the panel of experts assisting the UNSC`s Iran sanctions committee. The resolution was rejected after China and Russia vetoed it, while 11 members voted in favour.

Pakistan said the Iranian nuclear issue had become increasingly complicated, and that diplomacy and dialogue should continue to be the guiding principles.

The thing to keep an eye on is how Islamabad intends to use the time it has left as a UNSC member. Islamabad has on numerous occasions addressed the UN about the need to implement Security Council resolutions, especially in the cases of Kashmir and Palestine.

Pakistan`s stance on these matters is well established. However, as a member of the Council, it also has to deal with difficult votes where there might be no straightforward option.

Even when it wants to leave room for diplomacy, abstaining is still a decision.

With only a few months remaining in the term, Pakistan has the opportunity to make its stance on issues before the UNSC clearer.

Ultimately, what will count is not merely the number of resolutions it supports, but the consistency with which it explains its position when the Council is divided. The UNSC position is temporary, whereas the record Pakistan leaves behind will endure.

Maheen Zahra Lahore