ISLAMABAD: The 18th Conference of Speakers concluded in Islamabad on Friday with the adoption of the Islamabad Declaration, which outlines a strategic plan to strengthen parliamentary governance, promote democratic values and address pressing national and global challenges.
Hosted by the National Assembly of Pakistan, the two-day event brought together speakers and speakers from Pakistan’s federal and provincial legislatures, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).
The conference emphasized cooperation, inclusiveness and innovation to strengthen the foundations of Pakistan’s parliamentary system.
The declaration reaffirmed the collective commitment of Pakistan’s legislatures to ensure parliamentary supremacy, strengthen democratic norms by revising the rules of government to increase ministerial accountability, and ensure that elected representatives exercise meaningful authority.
She also called for upholding parliamentary traditions, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected, and creating a “Charter of Parliamentary Ethics and Decorum” through all-party dialogue.
The statement said it favors legislative action to combat climate change, fight terrorism and address socio-economic inequalities, including issues affecting women, youth and children.
It also highlighted the establishment of the Association of Public Accounts Committees and the harmonization of rules across legislatures to improve accountability and financial oversight.
To take advantage of parliamentary diplomacy, Pakistan’s role in regional and international forums should be strengthened by promoting peace, cooperation and connectivity.
The conference also condemned human rights violations in India’s Jammu, Kashmir and Palestine and called on the United Nations to enforce resolutions ensuring justice and humanitarian aid for the affected population.
The participants highlighted the modernization of parliamentary operations through digitization and artificial intelligence to increase efficiency and transparency.
They also committed to transform the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS) into a center of excellence for legislative research and capacity building.
Speakers agreed to formalize forums on women, children, youth and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to promote coordinated legislative efforts.
Collaboration with academia, media, civil society and think tanks has been identified as essential for inclusive governance.
The declaration concluded with the announcement that the 19th Speakers’ Conference will be hosted by the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly in 2025.
