ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani on Saturday said Pakistan’s election to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council "effectively rebuts allegations of Pakistan's isolation".
Pakistan emerged triumphant on Friday from one of the most hotly contested United Nations Security Council elections in years. Morocco, Guatemala and Togo were the others to secure a seat.
"It demonstrated acknowledgement of Pakistan's importance in the comity of nations," a triumphant Gilani said in a statement.
"It is a proof of Pakistan's support in the comity of the nations and effectively rebuts allegations of Pakistan's isolation as claimed by some circles," he said, referring to opposition criticism of his foreign policy.
Pakistan took the Asia-Pacific seat, getting 129 votes, the minimum required, to 55 for its only rival Kyrgyzstan. The two-year term begins on January 1, 2012. Arch rival India will also remain on the council through 2012.
Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar in a separate statement said the vote "reflects the importance and respect that Pakistan enjoys in the international community".
"Pakistan will take its seat on the UN Security Council at a time when the world in general and our extended region in particular is witnessing developments of far-reaching implications," Khar said.
"As in the past, Pakistan will play its constructive role in the Security Council for the maintenance of international peace and security."
Pakistan has been on the council six times, according to official media, 1952-53, 1968-69, 1976-77, 1983-84, 1993-94 and 2003-04.
India and Pakistan have shared terms on the Council in 1968, 1977 and 1984.
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it is really a prouding moment for the Pakistani nation on this world recongnition as a non permanent member of security council of UNO.It is an golden opportunity for Pakistan to express their policies regarding terrorism and other concerning matters to the world in a effective manner. It shows that Pakistan is becoming a part of almost every issue of the world , now Pakistan is in influencial position
Pakistan should celebrate but realize that these temporary memberships don't bring any honor or dignity in the community of nations. For a vision, Pakistan should keep permanent membership in mind but for that they have to improve quality of human resources and economy many many fold.