LAHORE: Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Friday highlighted Pakistan’s evolving diplomatic role, stating that the country is acting as a mediator between Iran and the United States, describing it as a significant achievement.

Calling for immediate political unity amid a tense regional environment, he urged all parties to put aside point-scoring and work collectively to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty, democratic system and economy.

Speaking to the media after inaugurating the 11th three-day Pakistan Footwear Material and Machinery Show 2026 at the Expo Centre here, the Senate chairman said the current situation demands national cohesion and responsible political conduct.

He noted that global attention was now focused on Pakistan and expressed optimism that Islamabad could help promote reconciliation between the warring sides.

Opens three-day footwear material and machinery show at Expo Centre

Responding to a question about the release of the PTI founder Imran Khan, Gilani said the matter fell within the jurisdiction of the judiciary.

He also reiterated that despite being a nuclear power, Pakistan had acted responsibly during its conflict with India.

Addressing criticism over the purchase of a Rs90 million vehicle for the Senate chairman, he clarified that the procurement was made during the 2024-25 fiscal year in accordance with legal procedures, along with other official vehicles for Senate use, terming the controversy as mere propaganda.

Earlier, in his address at the inaugural ceremony, Mr Gilani underlined the growing global significance of Pakistan’s footwear industry.

He congratulated the Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers Association (PFMA) and its leadership for successfully bringing together international and local stakeholders on a single platform.

He said the footwear sector plays a key role in Pakistan’s manufacturing economy, supporting thousands of jobs and businesses.

Pakistan currently exports footwear to over 60 countries, generating approximately $176m annually, which reflects rising global confidence in Pakistani products.

He added that Pakistan is the sixth-largest footwear-producing country in the world, offering strong potential to expand its footprint in the global markets.

Mr Gilani noted that such exhibitions facilitate technology transfer, improve production standards and create long-term business partnerships.

Reaffirming the Senate’s commitment, he said the upper house remained focused on strengthening industrial growth, diversifying exports, facilitating investment and generating employment. Highlighting Pakistan’s demographic advantage, he noted that over 60pc of the population comprises youth and urged industries to collaborate with training institutions and universities to build a skilled workforce.

Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers Association (PFMA) Chairman Rashid Islam said the industry held immense growth potential and that the exhibition reflected increasing confidence of both local and international companies.

He urged the government to formally recognise footwear industry as a key industrial sector and reduce customs duties on raw materials to support exporters in global competition.

A representative of the Guangdong Footwear Manufacturers and Shoes Materials Association said Chinese participation in the exhibition has surged to nearly 100 exhibitors, highlighting the growing trust in Pakistan’s market. He noted that the number of Chinese companies has risen from around 10 in 2023 to over 60 in 2025, indicating rapid expansion.

He appreciated the government’s support for bilateral economic cooperation under initiatives like CPEC, saying the improved business environment encouraged foreign investment.

He also praised PFMA for organising the event and enabling international collaborations.

Discussing global trends, he said the footwear industry was shifting towards environment-friendly and smart technologies, adding that Pakistan is emerging as a key market in South Asia. PFMA Convener Mansoor Ahsan said the exhibition, running from March 27 to 29, 2026, features more than 100 international companies, alongside local manufacturers, material suppliers, machinery experts and key stakeholders.

Published in Dawn, March 28th, 2026