Islamabad, The International Parliamentarians’ Congress (IPC) celebrated a momentous occasion with the groundbreaking ceremony of its new permanent headquarters at the Diplomatic Enclave in Islamabad. Esteemed guests, including Honourable Parliamentarians, His Excellency Mr. Duarte Pacheco, President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, distinguished members of the Diplomatic Corps, and other prominent figures, graced the event. This momentous occasion reflects Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to promoting parliamentary diplomacy and strengthening global cooperation.
In his address, Chairman Senate, Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, expressed profound gratitude to the Honourable Prime Minister of Pakistan for steadfastly supporting the IPC’s mission. The Prime Minister’s visionary leadership and commitment to global harmony align perfectly with the IPC’s objectives, fostering continued collaboration in tackling pressing global challenges.
“The IPC has evolved into a powerful platform uniting 193 parliamentarians from 50 countries worldwide. Its focus on promoting international cooperation has resulted in significant progress on borderless issues such as peace, security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability,” Chairman Senate remarked.
He highlighted the recognition garnered by the IPC, with “The Parliamentarian,” the Journal of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association CPA, acknowledging its success in bridging nations and fostering meaningful global discourse.
Chairman Senate Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani expressed confidence in the IPC’s collective resolve, vowing to build upon past achievements and make further progress towards shared goals. He extended heartfelt gratitude to all IPC members for their unwavering dedication and support, emphasizing that this milestone signifies not just the foundation of a building, but a testament to their commitment to a better future.
He underscored that the IPC and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) share a deep bond of unity and mutual respect, united by a vision of promoting dialogue, cooperation, and legislative action for global peace, prosperity, and progress. Their guiding principles align, further solidifying their roles on the world stage.
“As the IPC embarks on this new chapter, the road ahead may present challenges, but the collective determination of its members will continue to drive positive change and foster a better world,” Chairman Senate concluded.
In his address, IPU President Mr. Duarte Pacheco extended heartfelt congratulations to the IPC team for this remarkable achievement. He emphasized that the IPC’s new headquarters stands as a testament to Pakistan’s unwavering dedication to fostering global understanding through parliamentary diplomacy. President Pachecho highlighted the significance of collective action in addressing the world’s challenges, asserting that only through collaboration can we effectively tackle global issues and create solutions for the betterment of humanity. He commended Pakistan’s commitment to establishing channels of dialogue and recognized this groundbreaking as a historical moment in the journey of parliamentary diplomacy. President Pachecho underlined the pivotal role of the new IPC building in providing a platform for people from all walks of life to share ideas and work together in an efficient manner. He concluded on an optimistic note, stating that this ceremony marked not an end but the beginning of a stronger and more united future.
Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar conveyed warm congratulations to the IPC team on behalf of the Prime Minister of Pakistan. He affirmed the Prime Minister’s unwavering support for the vision of IPC and reiterated the belief in parliamentary connectivity as a powerful means to connect parliaments from around the world. Senator Tarar underscored the vital role that IPC plays in shaping the world through the exchange of ideas and experiences. He expressed commitment to continuously support this noble cause that fosters international understanding and cooperation.
The groundbreaking ceremony of the IPC’s new headquarters marks a historic milestone in the realm of global parliamentary diplomacy. With the unwavering commitment of Pakistan and the support of visionary leaders, the IPC is poised to become a hub for fostering collaboration, dialogue, and cooperation among nations. This momentous occasion symbolizes the beginning of an era of heightened international engagement and collective action.
Later, the IPU president along with other dignitaries visited Parliament House. He called on the Chairman Senate at Parliament House where both engaged in fruitful discussions on strengthening inter-parliamentary relations between Pakistan and the IPU, and exploring avenues to address global challenges through parliamentary diplomacy.
Highlighting the spirit of international cooperation, President Pacheco lauded Chairman Senate for his unwavering commitment to the establishment of the Permanent Headquarters of the International Parliamentary Congress in Islamabad. “Both organizations will contribute towards fostering unity and strengthening parliamentary ties worldwide”. said President IPU.
The Chairman Senate said that the collaboration between IPC and IPU sets the stage for enhanced communication, collective problem-solving, and joint efforts on global challenges. It opens new avenues for diplomacy and mutual understanding between nations.
Delegation including representatives from AWEB, envoys from Azerbaijan, Jordan and Guinea were shown around the Senate Museum and Senate Hall.
Later, a luncheon was hosted by Deputy Chairman Senate Mirza Muhammad Afridi in honour of the IPU President, Mr Duarte Pachecho.
