Pakistan has called for the responsible and equitable use of artificial intelligence (AI) to strengthen maritime security and protect international shipping routes. The country also stressed the need to prevent emerging technologies from being misused against global peace and security. Pakistan’s Acting Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Usman Jadoon, presented this position during a high-level Security Council debate.
Speaking at the debate titled ‘Emerging Technologies and Maritime Security: Implications for Peace and Security’, Jadoon highlighted the growing role of modern technologies in protecting maritime activities. He said countries should use artificial intelligence responsibly and ensure fair access to emerging technologies. He also stressed that these tools should support humanitarian efforts, including relief operations for seafarers facing piracy threats.
Jadoon described the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the foundation of the international maritime legal order. He said the international community must protect and promote the legal framework established under the convention. He emphasised that compliance with international maritime laws remains essential for maintaining stability and cooperation at sea.
The Pakistani representative also raised concerns over disruptions to international shipping routes. He referred to attacks on merchant vessels and interruptions to maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab. According to Jadoon, such incidents can quickly threaten global energy supplies, food security and economic stability. He also expressed support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries affected by tensions in these strategic waterways.
Jadoon strongly condemned attacks by Yemen’s Houthi militia on merchant ships and seafarers navigating the Bab al-Mandab Strait. He accused the group of attempting to turn the important waterway into a weapon against international shipping. He said these activities undermine maritime security and threaten regional peace, stability and development.
He particularly highlighted the impact of these attacks on Saudi Arabia, which has faced aggression from the Houthi militia. Jadoon reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also stressed that protecting commercial vessels and their crews remains essential for maintaining safe international maritime routes.
Pakistan’s position reflects growing international concerns about the security of strategic waterways and the responsible application of advanced technologies. The country has emphasised that artificial intelligence should strengthen maritime protection rather than create additional security threats. Ensuring safe shipping routes, respecting international law and protecting seafarers remain important priorities for regional and global stability.
