Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC): Message from Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, Founding Chairman of ISC & Chairman Senate of Pakistan

It is with immense pride that I address you on the eve of a historic moment in Pakistan’s parliamentary history. I have been an elected legislator for the past five decades.

Beginning my political career as a local politician to a federal minister, I have held the highest constitutional positions, and have remained Speaker of the National Assembly and Prime Minister, and also officiated as President of Pakistan.

The Senate of Pakistan is hosting the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) in Islamabad from November 11th-12th. As we prepare to welcome parliamentary leaders from across the world in our nation’s capital, I am reminded of a profound truth: in an age of complex global challenges, the most sustainable solutions emerge not from isolated efforts, but from collective wisdom and shared responsibility.

Beginning from my appointment as founding Chairman of ISC in April 2025, I along with my team, have worked towards a focused ISC conference addressing the concerns of developing nations i.e. peace, security and development.

The very hosting of this conference by Pakistan Senate is also a profound reflection of national unity and integrity. This remarkable initiative enjoys complete support from the federal and provincial governments, legislatures and federating units. It reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to a peaceful and prosperous world and power of parliamentary diplomacy as a new game changer in the international arena.

The unprecedented national unity behind convening this conference in Pakistan sets an example that great causes and noble objectives act as a unifying force resilient enough to tide over divergences and differences. This historic convergence of global parliamentary leadership symbolizes not just a diplomatic triumph, but a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s pivotal role in shaping a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Pakistan’ role as the convener of this dialogue is both symbolic and substantive. It reflects our nation’s evolving identity, not merely as a participant in global conversations, but as an architect of them.

Our journey in international relations has taught us that lasting peace cannot be secured through security measures alone. It must be rooted in equitable development, climate justice, and ethical governance, the very pillars upon which the ISC has been founded.

What sets this initiative apart is its commitment to turning dialogue into tangible outcomes. The Islamabad Communique, which will emerge from this conference, will not be another document for archives. It will serve as a living blueprint, a commitment to legislative action on climate resilience, equitable growth, and inter-cultural harmony. It will help establish follow-up mechanisms, ensuring that the voices raised in Islamabad continue to resonate in parliaments across the world.

The choice of Pakistan as the host country carries deep significance. Located at the crossroads of civilizations, our country embodies the conference’s essence, a meeting point where collective global wisdom and perspectives converge to address humanity’s most pressing challenges.

As we stand at the threshold of a new chapter in parliamentary diplomacy, I am filled with hope. Hope that our collective efforts will pave the path toward a more just world order. Hope that our children will inherit a planet where nations cooperate as naturally as neighbors.

I welcome and thank you for joining us in this journey - not as spectators, but as stakeholders in a future where peace, security, and development are not just ideals, but living realities for all.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025