Islamabad: The 28th Annual Conference of the International Association of Peacekeeping Training Centres (IAPTC) is being held for the first time in Pakistan at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), NUST, Islamabad. The event, running from November 4 to 8, 2024, began with the inauguration of a new CIPS building by General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

According to Inter Services Public Relations, the opening ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Under Secretary General of the Department of Peace Operations Jean Pierre Lacroix, the United Nations’ Police Advisor, the Acting Deputy Military Advisor, the Foreign Secretary of Pakistan, and the Rector of NUST. During his keynote address, General Munir highlighted the evolving threats and challenges to global peace, pointing out the ongoing plight of Kashmiris and Palestinians as reminders of the work that remains.

Guest of Honour Jean Pierre Lacroix acknowledged Pakistan’s significant contributions to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations and expressed appreciation for the country hosting this year’s IAPTC conference. Upon his arrival, the COAS was welcomed by Inspector General Training and Evaluation, Lieutenant General Fayyaz Hussain Shah.