Pakistan co-signed the launch of China’s newly set up International Organization for Mediation, a Hong Kong-based body that represents Beijing’s effort to amplify its diplomatic role in the world affairs.
The organization is open to all countries; is based on respect for the sovereignty, core interests and legitimate concerns of every country; aims to promote dialogue and trust between parties concerned based on equality; and desires inclusion of various legal systems, and their mediators, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said.
China hopes the new organization would be on par with the International Court of Justice, underscoring the country’s growing international role.
Pakistan, Indonesia, Laos, Cambodia and Serbia were among the countries attending the signing ceremony, while representatives from 20 international bodies, including the United Nations, were also expected to join, public broadcaster RTHK said.
China and Pakistan’s coming together on the occasion reflects close and multifaceted relations, which were very much evident during the recent Pakistan-India clashes, when Pakistan used Chinese technology to deter India and beat back its warplanes.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, signed the convention for the establishment of the IOM.
Dar applauded Chinese wisdom in developing and consistently leading efforts in establishing the IOM and fostering a global community with a shared future, the statement added.
He noted that the creation of the body underscores the indispensability and significance of multilateralism as the centerpiece for international peace, stability, and development.
“IOMeD also offers new opportunities and fresh hopes to build a more inclusive, more just and more equitable world. As one of the founding members of IOMed, Pakistan would continue to be an active voice in this noble mission,” the statement quoted him as saying.
Pakistan, he said is committed to promotion of peace and security as well as development. He elaborated on the critical importance of advancing and preserving multilateralism through faithful adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, full implementation of UN Security Council resolutions, as well as international law.
The deputy prime minister also drew attention to “India’s violation of international law through its acts of aggression against Pakistan and its unlawful holding in abeyance of the Indus Waters Treaty.”
He also also highlighted the occupation of Jammu and Kashmir and the occupied Palestinian Territories as drivers of conflict to regional peace and security.
Ishaq Dar called for the resolution of the longstanding Jammu and Kashmir dispute under the UN Security Council resolutions in line with the aspirations the Kashmiri people.
“The idea for the establishment of the IOMed was one of the key outcomes of the 2nd Belt and Road Forum held in Beijing in April 2019. China initiated discussions for the establishment of IOMed in 2021, and invited Pakistan to join negotiations as one of its founding members, the statement added.”
