Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has called for a renewed commitment to inclusive governance, peace, dialogue and equal opportunity, stressing that in an increasingly interconnected world, sustainable development and human empowerment are inseparable from international peace and stability.
Addressing the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Arusha, Tanzania, on the theme “Enhancing good governance and empowering communities through inclusivity, trust and opportunities for all,” Chairman Gilani said the principles of inclusion, trust, peace and opportunity must guide not only governance within states but also relations among nations.
He underscored Pakistan’s commitment to multilateralism, dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes, emphasizing that parliaments have a vital role in promoting understanding among nations and strengthening international cooperation at a time when the world faces conflict, terrorism, humanitarian crises and growing geopolitical tensions.
Referring to Pakistan’s recent diplomatic efforts during the Middle East crisis, Chairman Gilani said Pakistan has consistently advocated de-escalation, dialogue and ceasefire and supports international efforts for lasting peace and stability in the region. He stressed the need for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, unhindered humanitarian assistance, and a just and lasting solution to the Palestine issue in accordance with relevant UN resolutions and international law.
He reiterated Pakistan’s principled position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, emphasizing the right of the Kashmiri people to self-determination in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. He called for sustained international attention to unresolved disputes and conflicts, stressing that lasting peace requires addressing their underlying causes through peaceful means and dialogue.
Chairman Gilani also highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in promoting peace and security, referring to the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye as an expression of collective responsibility and cooperation for regional stability.
He stressed that there can be no sustainable development without peace and no meaningful empowerment without security. Recalling Pakistan’s experience in confronting terrorism, he said the country has made significant sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and continues to contribute to international and regional efforts for peace and security.
Turning to Pakistan’s parliamentary experience, Chairman Gilani said the Senate of Pakistan represents the principle of inclusive federalism, providing equal representation to all federating units. He noted that Parliament has played an important role in bringing marginalized communities into the national mainstream and strengthening their political and constitutional participation.
Chairman Gilani further recalled the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference held in Islamabad, which brought together parliamentary leaders from more than 40 countries and culminated in the Islamabad Communiqué. He said its guiding principles— “Dialogue over discord. Inclusion over division. Development over deprivation.”—remain highly relevant to the international community in confronting today’s shared challenges.
Concluding his address, Chairman Gilani underscored that the strength of democracy is ultimately measured by its ability to uphold human dignity, foster peace and create opportunities for all. He called upon parliamentarians to deepen dialogue, strengthen parliamentary diplomacy and work collectively towards a more peaceful, inclusive and equitable international order.
He noted that the participation of parliamentary delegations from across the IPU community in Arusha reflects the enduring importance of dialogue among nations. “At a time when the international community faces profound challenges, our collective presence here is a reminder that differences need not divide us, and that through dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation, Parliaments can help build bridges where there are divides and contribute to a more peaceful and secure world.”
