ISLAMABAD: UN Resident & Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan, Mohamed Yahya, said the United Nations may be 80 years old, but its values, norms, and identity “haven’t aged a day.” Speaking on Pakistan TV's morning show “World This Morning,” he highlighted the UN’s enduring mission, Pakistan’s development journey, and global crises like Gaza.
Pakistan’s priorities, not ours
Yahya said the UN’s work in Pakistan is driven by the country’s own goals, not by an external agenda.
“We don’t actually have our own priorities — you have priorities. We’re here to help you achieve them,” he said.
He noted that the government has asked the UN to focus on education and basic social services, with around 26 million children still out of school.
“Development is a marathon, not a sprint,” Yahya added. “We’re supporting federal and provincial governments to address education, malnutrition, and poverty through technical assistance, funding, and new ideas.”
80 years of the United Nations
Speaking after a UN Day reception in Islamabad, Yahya reflected on the organization’s 80-year journey.
“The UN Charter affirms that every person has the right to equality and dignity — that each individual matters,” he said. “These are the principles the world committed to 80 years ago, and they remain part of our DNA.”
He noted that, despite ongoing conflicts, the world has avoided another world war, which was the UN’s founding purpose.
“The UN Is a moral compass”
On global crises such as Gaza, Yahya quoted Secretary-General António Guterres: “The UN is not only a meeting place; it is a moral compass.”
“Has peace been experienced by the children of Gaza? Unfortunately, no,” he said. “But the UN continues to call for a ceasefire, deliver aid, and uphold justice.”
He reminded that the UN’s power rests with its member states, including Pakistan, which sits on the Security Council.
A lasting legacy
As the UN turns 80, Yahya said its mission — built on peace, development, and human rights — remains as vital as ever.
“The UN’s values have not aged a day,” he said. “They are as relevant today as they were in 1945.”
