Pakistan Joins International Mediation Body in Hong Kong

Pakistan, alongside China and other initial member states, formalized its commitment to the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) in Hong Kong on Friday. Beijing anticipates this body will rival the International Court of Justice and enhance Hong Kong’s standing on the global stage.

This development occurs amidst increasing geopolitical instability, intensified by the global trade disputes initiated by former U.S. President Donald Trump. These tensions have heightened the potential for a significant global economic slowdown.

Hong Kong’s leader, John Lee, stated earlier in the week that the mediation entity seeks to solidify Hong Kong’s position as a premier hub for resolving international disagreements. He asserted that its stature would be comparable to that of the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration of the United Nations in The Hague.

In addition to Pakistan, nations such as Indonesia, Laos, Cambodia, and Serbia participated in the signing ceremony. Representatives from twenty international organizations, including the United Nations, were also expected to attend, according to reports.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar represented Pakistan during the signing ceremony held in Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China.

Addressing attendees, Dar commended China’s leadership for its foresight and dedication in initiating and establishing IOMed. He hailed the organization’s launch as a pivotal advancement in reinforcing multilateralism and fostering global peace, stability, and progress.

Underlining Pakistan’s position as a founding member, the Deputy Prime Minister reiterated the nation’s dedication to the peaceful resolution of conflicts and international collaboration. He stressed that adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, complete implementation of UN Security Council resolutions, and upholding international law are crucial for sustaining peace and security.

Dar also touched upon regional concerns, highlighting ongoing disputes and breaches of international law. He denounced India’s military actions and its suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, in addition to its continued control of Jammu and Kashmir.

He underscored the necessity of resolving the Kashmir issue in accordance with relevant UN resolutions and the desires of the Kashmiri population. He also mentioned the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories as a substantial obstacle to peace and stability.

Pakistan, he affirmed, is eager to collaborate with IOMed to promote inclusive and equitable global cooperation through discourse and mediation.