International Desk: The Republic of Balochistan has formally called on the United Nations and the international community to grant it Non-Member Observer State status, citing the diplomatic precedent of entities that secured observer status before pursuing or achieving wider international recognition.

In a diplomatic communiqué dated August 21, the Republic of Balochistan said international recognition of a nation is a gradual diplomatic process and pointed to Switzerland and Palestine as examples of entities that held distinct positions within the UN system before attaining or pursuing full membership.

The communiqué stated that the State of Kalat declared independence on August 11, 1947, following the end of British rule, and argued that a declaration of independence and international recognition are separate stages of the diplomatic process.

The Republic of Balochistan said it was seeking Non-Member Observer State status at the United Nations as a diplomatic pathway, rather than asking the international community to create a new state.

It cited the case of Palestine, which received Non-Member Observer State status through UN General Assembly Resolution 67/19 in 2012, as a key precedent for its demand.

According to the communiqué, Balochistan’s strategic geography, coastline, mineral resources, energy reserves and potential role in regional trade could enable it to become an economic and humanitarian partner for the international community.

It said a future Balochistan would seek to direct its resources towards education, healthcare, human development, environmental protection, climate action and humanitarian assistance, including support for refugees and countries affected by natural disasters.

The communiqué also urged the international community to examine the Balochistan question beyond what it described as Pakistan’s internal administrative framework, calling for a “serious, legal and diplomatic discussion” based on self-determination, international law, human rights, regional peace and economic cooperation.

“We do not seek charity from the world. We demand diplomatic recognition and relations based on equality,” the statement said.

The Republic of Balochistan further appealed to countries to establish direct diplomatic relations, consider opening permanent missions and explore future commercial, economic, security and diplomatic cooperation.

The communiqué concluded with a direct appeal to the United Nations to begin consideration of its request for Non-Member Observer State status, declaring that “the hour for diplomatic engagement has arrived.”