Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday spoke about the fast-changing dynamics of the world, pointing to shifting geopolitics, emerging hybrid threats, and the rising significance of cybersecurity. He stressed that Pakistan remains ready to engage with all nations to foster understanding, peace, and sustainable development.
Addressing participants at the conclusion of the 6th International Workshop for Leadership and Stability 2026, he congratulated them on their active participation. Around 100 people attended the workshop, including 69 delegates from 49 countries.
President Zardari described leadership and stability as the foundation of strong nations and institutions, noting that today’s global challenges extend beyond conventional conflicts.
He said security now encompasses cyber threats, hybrid tactics, and information warfare, while issues like climate change, resource shortages, and disinformation transcend borders, requiring joint solutions.
The president urged participants to turn their discussions into tangible outcomes, emphasizing dialogue over division and cooperation over conflict.
He commended the National Defence University (NDU) for organizing the event, noting that such gatherings bring together policymakers, diplomats, military officials, academics, and private sector leaders to exchange ideas.
President Zardari expressed hope that the lessons from the workshop would reach broader institutions and society, while thanking the organizers and participants for their contributions.
He highlighted that the insights gained could foster meaningful collaborations that last beyond the event.
Answering participants’ questions, he highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen regional cooperation and advance technological expertise.
President Zardari specifically mentioned deepening ties with Serbia through enhanced interactions among think-tanks, industries, and academic institutions of both countries.
He stressed that countries must work together to address shared challenges, noting that Pakistan sees collaboration as essential in today’s interconnected world.
On domestic matters, he referred to the 18th Constitutional Amendment as a guiding framework for Pakistan’s sustainable future, reflecting the public’s ownership of decisions concerning national resources.
“Every country has its national interest. Pakistan promotes dialogue over conflict and hopes that volatility in our region does not escalate into open confrontation,” he said.
President Zardari also reaffirmed the Pakistan Peoples Party’s commitment to the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.
Earlier, Major General Muhammad Raza Aizad welcomed the president and expressed gratitude for allowing workshop participants to visit the Aiwan-e-Sadr.
He introduced the attendees, noting that 30 participants from Pakistan, representing sectors including industry, business, think-tanks, military, academia, and media, were also part of the workshop.
The program covered a wide range of topics, from the shifting global order, climate change, and xenophobia to economic perceptions and Pakistan’s art and culture. Major General Aizad added that participants would join a strong network of over 3,000 alumni worldwide.