Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, addressed the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in Geneva, shedding light on current global challenges, the role of parliaments, and Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to peace, development, and multilateral cooperation.
Chairman Senate stated that this international platform holds immense significance in moving towards a better future, especially at a time when the world is grappling with expanding conflicts, growing economic instability, climate change, inequality, and widespread human rights violations.
He said there is a trust deficit between people and institutions . He highlighted the increasing disregard for international laws and violations of humanitarian norms. Drawing the attention of the global community, he particularly pointed out the ongoing human rights violations in Palestine and Indian illegally occupied Jammu & Kashmir. He stated that the people of occupied Kashmir have been struggling for their right to self-determination for the past 75 years.
Chairman Senate stressed that in such a complex global scenario, the role of national and regional parliaments has become even more crucial and decisive. He noted that Pakistan’s Parliament has always promoted peace, development, and inter-parliamentary cooperation. The Upper House of Pakistan ensures strong representation of women, youth and marginalized communities.
Referring to the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), launched during his tenure as Prime Minister, Chairman Senate described it as a model social safety net system in Pakistan aimed at alleviating poverty and supporting underprivileged segments of society.
He stated that as Chairman Senate and as the founding chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers Conference, he places high importance on parliamentary diplomacy and considers inter-parliamentary engagement essential for addressing common challenges.
Chairman Senate announced that Pakistan will host the upcoming Speakers' Conference in Islamabad on 11th and 12th November this year, and formally extended invitations to parliamentary leaders to attend the conference.
In conclusion, he expressed hope that this global conference in Geneva will play an effective and meaningful role in promoting justice, peace, and equity. He appreciated Malaysia’s role in promoting peace between Cambodia and Thailand and paid tribute to the organizers and concerned authorities for the successful conduct of the conference.
