Parliamentary Diplomacy Effective Tool for Global Peace and Shared Prosperity: Yousaf Raza Gilani

PHNOM PENH: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has stressed the need for stronger parliamentary diplomacy, saying that international law must be applied equally to all states and that dialogue, diplomacy and bridge-building are indispensable for resolving conflicts.

Addressing the General Debate of the Second Inter-Parliamentary Conference (ISC) held in Cambodia, the Chairman Senate said parliaments could play an important role in ratifying agreements, ensuring accountability and promoting fair global principles. He called for more effective representation of the Global South in shaping international laws and norms.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said Pakistan was well aware of the cost of terrorism and conflicts and therefore chose peace. He said Pakistan had also played a role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran, reflecting its commitment to dialogue and diplomatic means for resolving disputes.

The Chairman Senate congratulated Cambodia on successfully hosting the Second ISC and stressed the need to further strengthen parliamentary engagement and cooperation. He also expressed complete solidarity with the people and parliament of Nepal in the wake of the natural disaster.

He welcomed Indonesia as the host of the next ISC and proposed that the ISC be transformed into a permanent institution to ensure sustained parliamentary cooperation on global challenges.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani also proposed establishing mechanisms within the ISC for rapid response, fact-finding missions and continuous parliamentary engagement. He said stronger parliamentary diplomacy could serve as an effective instrument for promoting global peace, resolving conflicts through peaceful means and advancing shared prosperity.