Gilani calls for stronger OIC-Arab League coordination to address challenges facing Muslim Ummah

49

ISLAMABAD, Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (WNP): Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Wednesday emphasized the need for dialogue, diplomacy, and collective international efforts to ensure lasting peace, saying Islam’s true message of peace, tolerance, and human dignity must be projected globally in the current challenging environment.

Addressing the “Paigham-e-Islam” Conference at the Jinnah Convention Centre, the Chairman Senate praised the organisers for convening an important platform promoting global dialogue and understanding.

He said Islam stands for peace, coexistence, tolerance, and respect for humanity, adding that presenting the true image of Islam before the world had become essential amid prevailing global tensions and conflicts.

“Durable peace can only be achieved through dialogue and effective diplomacy, not confrontation,” Gilani said, stressing that Pakistan has consistently played a responsible role in reducing tensions and promoting constructive engagement at regional and international levels.

He appreciated the efforts of President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their contributions toward regional peace and stability.

The chairman Senate said the reduction in regional tensions and improved prospects for peace were made possible through the effective strategy and coordinated efforts of the national leadership.

Highlighting the importance of parliamentary diplomacy, he said inter-parliamentary engagement was playing a vital role in strengthening international dialogue and promoting peaceful solutions to global challenges.

Referring to the recent Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference held in Islamabad, Gilani said the event helped reinforce the role of parliaments in promoting global peace and mutual understanding.

He said Pakistan enjoys strong relations with the Muslim world and recalled that the Islamic Summit Conference convened during the tenure of former prime minister Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto remains a historic milestone in strengthening Muslim unity.

Gilani stressed the need for effective coordination among the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Arab League, and other international forums to address common challenges facing the Muslim Ummah.

He called for promoting dialogue, mediation, and peaceful means for the resolution of conflicts, emphasizing that peace and stability require collective wisdom and cooperation.

Referring to Pakistan’s response under “Operation Marka-e-Haq” and “Bunyan-un-Marsoos,” the chairman senate said the country’s actions reflected a balanced, lawful, and responsible strategy.

He reiterated that there could be no compromise on national security, while emphasizing that Pakistan’s response remained measured and responsible.

“Pakistan prioritizes peace, but remains fully committed to defending its sovereignty and dignity,” he said.

Gilani urged the international community to rise above differences and work collectively for shared prosperity and global stability.

He concluded by affirming that Pakistan is ready to play a practical and proactive role in promoting global peace and dialogue.