KARACHI, Pakistan

Pakistan on Friday welcomed the decision announced by the UN secretary-general to remove the country's references from the Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict.

"This significant outcome is a testament to the Government of Pakistan’s constructive, sustained, and intensive engagement with the United Nations, including close cooperation with the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict (SRSG‑CAAC)," said a statement from the country's Foreign Ministry.

The statement comes just days after UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres decided to remove Pakistan from the annual report, specifically referring to it as a "situation of concern."

The report covers the period from January to December 2024.

The decision reflects international recognition of the strong institutional, legislative, and policy measures implemented by Pakistan to protect and advance the rights and well‑being of children, the statement said.

It is an affirmation of Pakistan’s firm commitment to aligning its national legal and institutional frameworks with international norms and best practices for safeguarding children affected by conflict and violence.

Pakistan reaffirmed its "steadfast" commitment to collaborate closely with the UN to enhance and strengthen efforts for protecting and promoting children’s rights, ensuring a safer and brighter future for generations to come.