LAHORE: Climate change is one of the biggest challenges of our time and the resolution of the issue is essential for a sustainable and inclusive future, says Acting President Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Saturday.

Addressing the closing ceremony of two-day Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Asia and Southeast Asia Conference, he said: “Parliaments are not just legislative bodies but engines of change and overcoming these challenges requires cross-border regional cooperation and a shared responsibility”.

Mr Gilani said Southeast Asia, with its diverse cultures, histories and economic opportunities, was also facing significant challenges such as poverty, inequality, urban development, climate change, and rapid technological advancements. Addressing these issues required urgent action, and this conference had provided an opportunity to discuss a collective strategy for environmental protection, sustainable urban living, and the conservation of natural resources, he stressed.

Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, in his address to the conference, emphasized the need for collective measures to address the socioeconomic impacts of climate change, modern policymaking, parliamentary diplomacy, regional cooperation, and strengthening local governance. He stressed the importance of unified efforts to counter misinformation, hate speech, and digital corruption.

The speaker underscored the significance of democratic principles, constitutional values, equitable resource distribution, and a strong accountability system. He also highlighted the necessity of effective legislation for environmental protection.

On this occasion, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan presented the Charter of Lahore at the conference which was unanimously adopted. He acknowledged that the parliaments played a pivotal role in promoting inclusive governance, accountability and protecting citizens’ rights.

At the concluding session, CPA Deputy Secretary General Jarvis Matiya delivered the Vote of Thanks, stating that the conference had proven to be a significant milestone in promoting international parliamentary cooperation. He emphasized that the active participation and deep commitment of all delegates had made this gathering a success.

Mohammed Muzammil Mohamed Munir, a Member of Parliament from Sri Lanka, also expressed his gratitude for the successful arrangements of the conference.

“This session provided an excellent opportunity for the region’s legislators to learn from each other’s experiences and strengthen mutual cooperation,” he said.

Similarly, the speaker of the Pahang State Legislative Assembly, Malaysia, Dato’ Sri Haji Mohd Sharkar bin Haji Shamsudin, extended his thanks to the organisers for successfully hosting the conference.

He stated: “This gathering is a significant step in promoting our shared democratic values and strengthening parliamentary relations. This platform has allowed us to engage in discussions on global issues that are essential for securing a better future for our people.”

Published in Dawn, February 9th, 2025