Islamabad: The 28th Annual Conference of the International Association of Peacekeeping Training Centre (IAPTC) commenced on Monday at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) at the National University of Science and Technology. Marking its first hosting in Pakistan, the event began with the inauguration of the new CIPS building by Chief of Army Staff, General Syed Asim Munir.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the opening ceremony was attended by notable figures including Jean Pierre Lacroix, Under Secretary General of the Department of Peace Operations, along with United Nation’s Police Advisor, Acting Deputy Military Advisor, the Foreign Secretary of Pakistan, and the Rector of NUST. These dignitaries joined the Chief of Army Staff in the ribbon-cutting and the first sessions of the conference.

In his keynote address, General Munir highlighted the persistent challenges and evolving threats to global peace, mentioning the ongoing struggles in regions like Kashmir and Palestine as reminders of the work that remains in peacekeeping efforts. Jean Pierre Lacroix, in his remarks as the Guest of Honour, commended Pakistan’s significant contributions to UN Peacekeeping Operations and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s role in hosting this year’s conference.

The event aims to foster international collaboration and training in peacekeeping operations, reflecting Pakistan’s commitment to global peace and security initiatives.