ISLAMABAD: Pakistan became a co-signatory to China’s newly established Hong Kong-based International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) on Friday, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office.
China signed a convention setting up the IOMed in Hong Kong, aiming to create an international mediation body on par with the International Court of Justice, and to enhance Hong Kong’s international standing, Reuters reported.
Countries including Pakistan, Indonesia, Laos, Cambodia, and Serbia attended the signing ceremony, while representatives from 20 international bodies, including the United Nations, were also expected to join, said public broadcaster RTHK.
“Deputy Prime Minister [and] Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, today signed, on behalf of Pakistan, the convention on the establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation in Hong Kong,” the Foreign Office statement read.
Speaking at the occasion, Dar appreciated the Chinese leadership for its wisdom in developing and consistently leading efforts to establish IOMed and promote a global community with a shared future, the statement added.
He said the creation of IOMed underscores the indispensability and significance of multilateralism as the centrepiece 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.
The deputy prime minister underlined Pakistan’s strong commitment to promoting peace, security, and development. He emphasized 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, and respect for international law.
Dar also drew attention to India’s violation of international law through acts of aggression against Pakistan and its unlawful suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. He highlighted the occupation of Jammu and Kashmir and the occupied Palestinian Territories as factors driving conflict in regional peace and security.
He called for the resolution of the longstanding Jammu and Kashmir dispute under the UN Security Council resolutions and in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people.
The idea for establishing IOMed was a key outcome of the 2nd Belt and Road Forum held in Beijing in April 2019. China initiated discussions for setting up IOMed in 2021 and invited Pakistan to join negotiations as one of its founding members, the Foreign Office said.
The organisation is open to all countries and is based on respect for the sovereignty, core interests, and legitimate concerns of every nation. It aims to promote dialogue and trust between parties based on equality and desires the inclusion of various legal systems and their mediators, the Foreign Office added.
Separately, FM Dar met with John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and congratulated him on IOMed’s establishment, according to a separate Foreign Office statement.
Noting Hong Kong’s growing significance in international mediation efforts, Dar highlighted the region’s role as a “global hub, linking east and west.”
The two discussed measures to deepen economic investment and trade cooperation between Pakistan and Hong Kong.
“Hailing the launch of IOMed as a milestone inspired by President Xi Jinping’s vision, the DPM/FM noted its alignment with Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue-driven diplomacy and the UN Charter’s principles,” the statement read.
The foreign minister praised the chief executive and SAR government for their “impressive economic and social development strides under the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ framework,” while recalling Pakistan and Hong Kong’s “long-standing friendship.”
FM Dar also commended the Pakistani community in Hong Kong for strengthening bilateral ties and contributing to the city’s diversity and economy.
He announced the meeting on X, describing it as “cordial and productive.”
Welcoming Dar’s visit, the chief executive expressed eagerness to further enhance collaboration between Hong Kong and Pakistan.
Speaking at a ceremony in Hong Kong, Dar said the creation of IOMed reaffirmed Pakistan and China’s shared view of multilateralism as the centerpiece of international peace, stability, and development.
He said IOMed offers “new opportunities and fresh hopes to build a more inclusive, more just and more equitable world.”
“Pakistan will continue to be an active voice in this noble mission,” Dar said.
He said Pakistan would bring to IOMed “not just a rich diplomatic experience, but also unflinching commitment to dialogue, justice, and fair play, excellencies.”
“Let me commit to empower this organisation, allowing it to fulfill its potential in the service of these equity and justice. I thank you all,” he concluded.
