OPINION:
In an increasingly interconnected world, diplomacy extends beyond formal agreements; it thrives in every handshake, shared story, and genuine exchange between nations.
Over the past few months, I have had the distinct honour of representing Pakistan as part of the Senate delegation at key global forums, including the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC). These engagements were not merely diplomatic obligations but powerful opportunities to listen, learn, and lead.
At the IPU, a crucible of global parliamentary dialogue, we engaged with legislators from across continents on pressing issues like climate resilience, gender equity, and democratic renewal. The ISC, meanwhile, offered a valuable space for constructive discourse between parliamentary leaders from the region and beyond. We exchanged ideas on legislative best practices, regional peace, particularly in Northeast Asia, Europe and the Middle East and inclusive governance—reaffirming our shared belief that dialogue remains the strongest tool for global cooperation.
The ISC marked a historic moment for Pakistan on the global stage. Our delegation witnessed Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani being unanimously appointed as the Founding Chairman of the ISC, a moment of profound pride and responsibility for the nation. Speaker Johari of Malaysia was Co-Chair of the founding Committee. President of FORPREL, Luis Rodondo, who is President of the Honduran Congress, joined the new Secretary General, Ek Nath Dhakal of the Nepalese Parliament, to take leadership roles.
With over 45 countries represented, the conference unanimously adopted the “Seoul Declaration: Joint Declaration on Peace and Prosperity.” Speaker Newt Gingrich, the 50th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, speaking at our session at the Korean National Assembly, said, “Having current Speakers from 40 parliaments here today is remarkable. To become a speaker, you must develop tremendous skill and leadership to bring opposing factions into cooperation. The ISC will play a key role in advancing peace.”
Chairman Gilani’s keynote address called for a new global consensus rooted in fairness, inclusivity, and multilateral solidarity. He presented a bold, forward-looking vision for international cooperation, emphasizing reforms in global governance, equitable trade, and the ethical regulation of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. His leadership in this forum reflects Pakistan’s evolving role as a participant and pioneer in global peacebuilding and parliamentary diplomacy.
As a Pakistani woman in a senior parliamentary advisory role, I felt a profound responsibility to represent not just our country but the aspirations of young leaders, women in governance, and the power of inclusive politics.
These international experiences resonate deeply with the visionary leadership of Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani. His recent initiatives underscore Pakistan’s commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development:
- Economic Stability and Growth: Chairman Gilani has emphasized the necessity of political stability as a cornerstone for economic progress. He advocates for public-private partnerships, reforms in taxation, and the promotion of renewable energy sources like hydropower to ensure affordable and environmentally friendly energy solutions.
- Peaceful Outlook and Diplomacy: The Chairman has always promoted Pakistan’s peaceful outlook and seeks friendly relations with all countries. His diplomacy is grounded in mutual respect, cultural understanding, and multilateral cooperation.
His election as the founding president of the ISC and the adoption of the Seoul Declaration mark pivotal milestones in Pakistan’s parliamentary diplomacy. They show that even in a turbulent world, Pakistan is capable of leading with wisdom, purpose, and moral clarity.
In an increasingly volatile world, Pakistan remains steadfast in its agenda of mutual respect and peaceful co-existence with our neighbours and all regional countries. These principles are not only reflected in our foreign policy but are echoed in every engagement, delegation, and international dialogue led by Pakistan’s parliamentary leadership.
With the evolving global landscape, we intend to initiate a constructive engagement with global leaders, especially the administration of President Donald Trump, to foster a renewed partnership based on mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for regional stability and prosperity. For the achievement of our common objectives for peace and stability, and to develop a deeper understanding of our challenges, it is equally important to intensify parliamentary interactions.
The world is listening—and so are we.
• Misbah Khar is Senior Adviser to the Chairman Senate of Pakistan
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