Gilani reaffirms Pakistan's commitment to parliamentary democracy

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani met President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Dr Tulia Ackson in New York and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to parliamentary democracy, multilateralism, and global cooperation through active engagement with the IPU.

At the meeting, he conveyed warm greetings and appreciated the IPU’s role as the global forum of parliaments, said a news release received here on Sunday.

He said Pakistan considers the IPU an important platform for dialogue, rule of law, inclusive governance, and parliamentary cooperation. Gilani highlighted Pakistan’s active participation in IPU assemblies and committees.

He referred to his participation in the 150th IPU Assembly held in Tashkent in April 2025, where Pakistan contributed to discussions on peace, security, sustainable development, climate action, and multilateral cooperation.

He also mentioned the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) held in Islamabad in November 2025, which ended with the adoption of the Islamabad Communiqué. He said the conference strengthened parliamentary diplomacy and linked peace and development.

The chairman said the Senate of Pakistan plays a key role in inclusive legislation, minority protection, provincial representation, and oversight.

He said that Pakistan adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through a unanimous parliamentary resolution in 2016 and expressed interest in closer cooperation with the IPU on SDG-related legislation and oversight.

On climate change, he said Pakistan remains among the most vulnerable countries, recalling the devastating floods of 2022. He called for cooperation with the IPU on climate legislation and disaster preparedness.

Gilani also appreciated the IPU’s work on gender equality and highlighted Pakistan’s reserved seats for women in parliament and measures for women’s protection. He referred to the Benazir Income Support Programme as a major social protection initiative.

He reiterated Pakistan’s support for peaceful conflict resolution, the right to self-determination of the people of IIOJ&K in line with UN resolutions, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds as its capital.

The IPU president appreciated Pakistan’s active role and welcomed continued cooperation.