United Nations, 31 July 2026 (Kamran Raja): Pakistan has called on young people across the globe to play a leading role in promoting peace, strengthening multilateralism and enhancing international cooperation to address the world’s growing challenges. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the conference titled “Future We Want: Global Initiative for Young Leaders” at the United Nations Headquarters, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, emphasized that youth are indispensable partners in building a peaceful, inclusive and sustainable future. The conference was held under the theme “Empowering Youth to Reinforce Multilateralism.” Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad noted that nearly 65 percent of Pakistan’s population is under the age of 30, reflecting the country’s strong belief in the transformative role of young people. He also appreciated the Permanent Mission of Italy and the Italian Diplomatic Academy for bringing together emerging leaders from around the world.
Highlighting the founding principles of the United Nations, he said the organization was established to save future generations from the scourge of war, with peace, human rights and sustainable development serving as its three mutually reinforcing pillars. He stressed that lasting peace is built on justice, dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to the principles of the UN Charter. The ambassador observed that the world continues to face armed conflicts, foreign occupation and increasing polarization, making effective multilateralism more important than ever. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to peaceful coexistence, sovereign equality, dialogue and the peaceful settlement of disputes. Referring to Pakistan’s contributions to multilateral diplomacy, Ambassador Asim recalled the unanimous adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2788 (2025) during Pakistan’s presidency of the Security Council, reaffirming the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s consistent advocacy for restraint, dialogue and de-escalation during the recent conflict in West Asia, as well as its support for diplomatic initiatives that led to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Addressing young participants, the ambassador underscored that peacebuilding begins not only in diplomatic forums but also in classrooms, universities, communities and digital spaces. He urged youth to promote understanding, embrace diversity, reject intolerance and misinformation, and build bridges across cultures and societies. Describing young people as the future diplomats, policymakers, entrepreneurs, innovators and community leaders, Ambassador Asim encouraged them to uphold international law, strengthen multilateralism, advance dialogue and foster global solidarity. Concluding his address, he expressed confidence that the next generation would contribute to building a more peaceful, just and inclusive international order and urged participants to choose cooperation over division, dialogue over confrontation and hope over fear. He wished the young leaders success in their deliberations and future leadership journeys.