Pakistan wants peace & stability in the region: Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani
ISLAMABAD, Nov 13 (SABAH): Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has said that developing nations, particularly in the Global South, are navigating great power competition amidst bloc politics and economic containment and they face an increasing divide with wealthier nations, further marginalizing their economic and security options. “This stark reality is reflected in conflicts like the Ukrainian War and tensions in Gaza, where geopolitical interests often obscure humanitarian imperatives”, he observed. The Chairman Senate was addressing IPRI Margalla Dialogue in Islamabad on Wednesday. The theme of the dialogue was “Emerging Global Realities; Challenges and Responses”.
Addressing the participants, he remarked that way forward lies in a more democratic, inclusive global order and Pakistan holds a unique position as a bridge across regions and a voice for the Global South.
He said that domestically, we must address our internal challenges like issues of security, governance, and economic resilience. Internationally, we must present a clear, unified voice that advocates for collective security, economic justice, and cooperation to address transnational threats like climate change, pandemics, and terrorism.
He underline the need to uphold principles of respect, sovereignty, and peaceful coexistence while also emphasized the need to address core conflicts of Palestine and Kashmir issues, with fairness and without bias.
He said that global tensions echo profoundly on both Eastern and Western fronts, in our region. “Pakistan firmly believes that only through dialogue and mutual respect can South Asia transform from a theatre of rivalry into a community of collaboration”, Chairman Senate added while saying that Pakistan remains committed to peace and stability in the region.
He said that Pakistan’s strategic location, rich cultural heritage and resilient people are assets to foster a society based in inclusivity, justice and good governance. This will help create a nation that is economically self-reliant, society and intellectually vibrant.
He called for fostering investor’s confidence by ensuring political stability and sound governance and emphasized empowering local communities through socio economic reforms, thereby closing gaps that allow terrorism and extremism to flourish.
Regarding education, the Senate Chairman said that education remains the cornerstone of any nation’s progress. He called for equipping youth with skills needed to thrive in a competitive, globalized world. “Pakistan’s future depends on an educated, innovative, and technologically adept workforce, capable of driving sustainable development” he observed.
He underlined the need to counter disinformation and this requires truth, transparency, and a commitment to countering propaganda with evidence-based discourse.
Another imperative is strengthening judicial systems, updating outdated laws, and implementing criminal justice reforms. This will empower our people and curb criminal activities that threaten national cohesion, he remarked.
He said that our journey ahead lies not in isolation but in unity and collaboration both internally and with our global partners. “Together, by adhering to the principles of justice, inclusivity, and resilience, we can navigate these turbulent times and emerge stronger”, he observed while concluding his speech.
The Chairman Senate also commended Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) President Dr. Raza Muhammad for bringing together such distinguished voices from across the globe as such dialogue help advance collective wisdom and explore solutions to the challenges that shape a shared future.