Islamabad: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, speaking at the 1st International Peace Summit 2026 organized by the International Human Rights Commission, emphasized the need for increased global investment in diplomacy, dialogue, justice, education, development, and human dignity. Marking the International Day of Peace, he highlighted the importance of prioritizing diplomacy over confrontation and education over extremism, aligning with the summit’s theme, “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.”

According to Press Information Department, Gilani addressed an assembly of international leaders, parliamentarians, diplomats, and peace advocates, stressing that peace encompasses more than the absence of war. It includes security, justice, dignity, opportunity, and hope. He expressed concern over ongoing conflicts in regions such as Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and Haiti, urging that geopolitical interests should not overshadow human suffering.

Gilani underscored the inseparability of peace, security, and development and called for a comprehensive security concept that considers human dignity, education, economic opportunity, and social inclusion. He advocated for parliamentary diplomacy as a tool for responsible statecraft, suggesting that parliaments can serve as platforms for resolving differences through debate rather than violence. He referenced the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference as an example of how parliamentary diplomacy can bolster cooperation and conflict resolution.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to peaceful dispute resolution, respect for sovereignty and international law, and multilateral cooperation, Gilani urged the international community to favor dialogue over confrontation, education over extremism, and humanity over hatred. He emphasized the necessity of building peace “every day, everywhere, for everyone.”