ISLAMABAD — Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has underscored that peace, security and development are inseparable pillars of progress, as Pakistan hosted the inaugural session of the Inter‑Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference in Islamabad.
Conference Opens in Islamabad
The landmark gathering brought together parliamentary leaders from across the world under the theme “Peace, Security and Development.” Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif joined as Chief Guest, with Gilani welcoming delegates on behalf of the Parliament and the people of Pakistan. He described the event as a defining moment in parliamentary diplomacy, uniting representatives from both the Global North and South to deliberate on shared challenges.
Global Instability Highlighted
In his address, Gilani pointed to the instability facing the world today, citing wars, economic shocks, climate change, and technological disruptions. “Peace is unravelling before us — from Gaza to Sudan to Occupied Kashmir,” he said, stressing that parliaments must act as guiding lights to foster cooperation and understanding across divides.
Call for Inclusive Security
The Senate Chairman emphasized the need for a broader definition of security that includes economic resilience, climate sustainability, food and water security, and digital integrity. He noted Pakistan’s minimal contribution to global emissions but high vulnerability to climate change, calling it a “moral and practical imperative” for parliaments to act collectively.
Pakistan’s Role in Peace Efforts
Gilani reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to global peace under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. He recalled Pakistan’s frontline role in combating terrorism and its significant contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions. Despite provocations on its borders, he said, Pakistan had shown maturity and restraint, consistently extending the hand of dialogue.
Parliaments as Drivers of Trust
Drawing on decades of parliamentary experience, Gilani said sustainable progress and security are interdependent. He stressed that parliaments are not bystanders but “drivers of trust, builders of consensus, and voices of the people when the world grows uncertain.” He urged delegates to move beyond promises and deliver bold, practical solutions.
Quoting Benazir Bhutto
Concluding his speech, Gilani quoted Pakistan’s first woman Prime Minister, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto: “Leadership is about the strength of one’s convictions, the ability to endure the punches, and the energy to promote an idea.” He called on participants to ensure the conference is remembered for its conviction, partnerships, and clarity of purpose.
Productive Dialogue Ahead
The Chairman Senate extended his best wishes to all delegates for a fruitful dialogue and a pleasant stay in Islamabad, noting that the world is watching and urging leaders to act with unity, vision, and courage.
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