Gilani urges global unity, peace at Islamabad conference

ISLAMABAD: (Web Desk) – Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani addressed the “Paigham-e-Islam” Conference in Islamabad, calling for stronger global dialogue, interfaith harmony, and collective efforts to promote peace, tolerance, and unity among nations.

In his keynote speech, the Senate Chairman emphasized that Islam, based on the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), is a religion rooted in compassion, justice, and human dignity. He said the true message of Islam must be communicated clearly to counter misunderstandings and promote global coexistence.

Highlighting Pakistan’s diplomatic stance, Gilani stressed that lasting peace cannot be achieved through conflict, but only through dialogue and engagement. He said Pakistan has consistently supported restraint, responsibility, and peaceful resolution of disputes on the international stage.

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He also acknowledged the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defense Forces Asim Munir, and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, crediting their role in managing regional tensions and promoting stability.

Gilani recalled his efforts in parliamentary diplomacy, particularly as the founding chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers Conference, describing it as an important platform for global cooperation. He also highlighted Pakistan’s role in strengthening Muslim unity, referencing the historic Islamic Summit in Lahore convened by Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

He proposed closer coordination between major international and parliamentary forums, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Arab League, Inter-Parliamentary Union, and related bodies to establish structured mechanisms for dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.

Referring to national security, Gilani stated that Pakistan’s responses in recent regional tensions reflected a careful, lawful, and defensive approach aimed at protecting sovereignty while maintaining commitment to peace.

Concluding his address, he urged the global community to move beyond divisions and work together for a future based on stability, cooperation, and shared prosperity, reaffirming Pakistan’s readiness to contribute positively to global peace efforts.