Pakistan, Sept. 17 -- Pakistan abstained on Thursday during a United Nations Security Council vote on extending the Iran sanctions panel's mandate. The US-sponsored resolution received 11 votes in favour and two abstentions. China and Russia voted against the resolution, preventing its adoption. Pakistan was among the two countries that abstained from the vote.

Read More: Pakistan clarifies remarks on US sanctions against Iran

Pakistan's UN ambassador, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, explained Islamabad's position during the council session. He said the Iran nuclear issue had become increasingly complicated. Ahmad said the council had moved away from cooperation and peaceful settlement. He stressed that diplomacy and dialogue should guide efforts ...