Ambassador Munir Akram Urges United Front Against TTP

Pakistan's Ambassador Munir Akram has called for a united front in recovering weapons from extremist groups like Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) during the 4th UN Conference on Small Arms and Light Weapons. Akram highlighted the TTP's use of safe havens in Afghanistan to launch deadly attacks into Pakistan, emphasizing the need to investigate how these groups acquire advanced weaponry.

The UN Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons, established in 2001, aims to combat the illegal trade of such arms. Akram stressed that terrorists and criminals obtain these weapons from illicit sources to fuel conflicts and terrorism, underscoring the negative impact of their proliferation on peace and security.

Akram also addressed the challenges posed by evolving conflict landscapes and technological advancements, such as UAVs and drones. He emphasized the importance of the UNPoA and the International Tracing Instrument in tackling unauthorized arms trade and trafficking.

While Pakistan has strengthened its regulations and controls to prevent the diversion of weapons, Akram highlighted the necessity of addressing the demand side by resolving conflicts and combating terrorism. International cooperation and support are crucial in enhancing national capacities for tracking and intercepting illicit arms.

The ongoing UN conference serves as a vital platform to assess progress and plan strategies to combat small arms proliferation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, represented by Izumi Nakamitsu, emphasized the significant impact of these weapons despite their 'small' classification, especially amidst rising global military expenditures.

The call for a coordinated effort to retrieve weapons from extremist groups like TTP underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating small arms proliferation. By addressing both the supply and demand sides of the issue, countries can work towards enhancing peace, security, and sustainable development globally.