Islamabad, In a significant address at the 148th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Geneva, the Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, emphasized the vital role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering world peace, understanding, and sustainable development. Highlighting the pressing issues of ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Jammu and Kashmir, as well as the global challenge of climate change, Sadiq called for strengthened international cooperation and adherence to democratic values and the rule of law.
According to National Assembly of Pakistan, Sadiq detailed the harrowing impacts of conflict on civilians in Gaza, noting the death toll and urging for immediate action to halt the violence and address the humanitarian crisis. He condemned the indiscriminate force used by Israel and stressed the need for a ceasefire and the recognition of Palestinian rights to self-determination and statehood within pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
Sadiq also addressed the long-standing issue of Jammu and Kashmir, advocating for the right to self-determination for Kashmiris in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions. He highlighted the region’s prolonged suffering under occupation and the importance of recognizing the human aspect of the Kashmir dispute, beyond territorial and security concerns.
Further addressing the assembly, the Speaker pointed out the severe effects of climate change on developing countries, particularly Pakistan, which faced devastating floods in 2022. Despite contributing less than 1% to the global carbon footprint, Pakistan has been at the forefront of climate change impacts, underscoring the need for global action to support vulnerable countries.
Sadiq’s address underlined the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in addressing these critical global issues, calling for enhanced bilateral and multilateral partnerships through Parliamentary Friendship Groups. He advocated for dialogue and cooperation as key to achieving peace, understanding, and sustainable development across the globe.