United Nations in Pakistan has not closed its offices in the country and there has been relocation of some of its staff and offices to ensure security of UN offices and staff.
A spokesman of UN expressing concern on electronic media reports alleging the closure of the UN offices in Islamabad said, certain measures are being taken to relocate some staff and offices, situated in different parts of the federal capital, to safer locations.
"We wish to inform all business partners and the general public that United Nations has not closed down its offices and projects in Pakistan," said the spokesman. A number of security incidents in recent weeks have drawn attention to the prevailing security situation in the country and the potential security risks to the international and national communities, he said. The spokesman said, as a consequence the United Nations has endeavoured to protect its staff and provide them with a secure and conducive work environment.
"In order to avoid any possible security threats, we are taking additional measures to strengthen the security of our staff and premises besides relocating some of the offices," said the spokesman. The spokesman said, "We wish to present our compliments to the government of Pakistan for their continued assurance and security arrangements for the United Nations offices in the country."
He said there are 20 United Nation entities working in a range of development, health and population, education, rural and agriculture development, poverty reduction, humanitarian assistance and environmental programmes and projects in the country that continue to flourish.
The enhanced security measures being implemented by the United Nations has not affected any of these programmes, the spokesman added. He said, "We wish to reiterate that United Nations in Pakistan stands committed to continue its support and assistance to serve the people of Pakistan in support of the development agenda in the country."