Islamabad, February 16, 2026: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has returned to Pakistan following a highly successful visit to the United States, where he represented the country at the Joint Annual Parliamentary Hearing of the United Nations and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).
During the visit, Chairman Gilani forcefully articulated Pakistan’s principled positions at global forums, emphasizing respect for international law and the peaceful resolution of long-standing disputes in accordance with the UN Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions.
Addressing the inaugural session of the 2026 Annual IPU Hearing, the Chairman stressed that democratic, transparent, and accountable decision-making is essential for enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of the United Nations. He highlighted the pivotal role of parliaments in ensuring the implementation of international commitments at the national level, underscoring that the inclusion of elected representatives in global governance is a pressing necessity of modern times.
Describing the United Nations as the cornerstone of multilateral cooperation, Chairman Gilani said contemporary global challenges cannot be addressed by any single nation in isolation. He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening synergy between the UN, the IPU, and other parliamentary bodies, recalling his earlier patronage of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference and stressing the importance of collective parliamentary action to achieve shared global goals and sustainable development targets.
During his stay in New York, Chairman Gilani held separate high-level meetings with IPU President Tulia Ackson and IPU Secretary-General Martin Chungong. The discussions focused on Pakistan’s proactive and dignified parliamentary diplomacy, its commitment to democracy and the rule of law, and the IPU’s role as an effective platform for dialogue, inclusive governance, and cooperation among world parliaments.
The Chairman highlighted Pakistan’s long-standing engagement with the IPU, noting the Parliament of Pakistan’s consistent participation in IPU assemblies, standing committees, and general debates. He reiterated Pakistan’s clear and principled stance on global peace, sustainable development, climate change, and effective multilateralism.
On climate change, Chairman Gilani referred to the devastating floods of 2022 and other extreme weather events, pointing out that despite Pakistan’s minimal contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, it remains among the most climate-vulnerable countries. He called for climate justice, adherence to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and urgent financial and technical support for developing nations.
On issues of global peace and human rights, the Chairman emphasized dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable paths to conflict resolution. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for the right to self-determination of the people of Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and stressed the need for a just resolution of the Palestinian issue, including the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state for lasting peace in the Middle East.
The high-level parliamentary delegation led by Chairman Gilani also met Annalena Baerbock, President of the UN General Assembly, at UN Headquarters. During the meeting, the Chairman reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the UN as the central pillar of international peace, security, and human rights. He underscored the need for resolving the Kashmir dispute in line with Security Council resolutions and raised concerns over recent developments related to the Indus Waters Treaty, warning that unilateral actions could undermine international water laws and regional stability.
The President of the UN General Assembly welcomed the Pakistani delegation, appreciating Pakistan’s high-level participation in the IPU hearing and commending its active and constructive role within the UN framework.
During the visit, Chairman Gilani also attended receptions hosted by the Pakistani community in the United States. He lauded the diaspora’s positive role in promoting bilateral relations. Leaders of the Pakistan Peoples Party US Chapter welcomed the Chairman and his delegation, while Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Asim Iftikhar hosted a reception in their honour.
Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani’s visit was widely seen as a strong reflection of Pakistan’s active parliamentary diplomacy and principled foreign policy, effectively projecting the country’s democratic values, national interests, and commitment to global cooperation on the international stage.
