Pakistan joins China-led new global mediation body 

Hong Kong (Web Desk): Pakistan joined China and several other founding nations in signing a convention in Hong Kong on Friday to establish a new international mediation body that Beijing hopes will rival the International Court of Justice and enhance the city’s global stature.

The initiative comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, intensified by US President Donald Trump's global trade war, which has increased the risk of a sharp global economic downturn.

The newly formed body is intended to position Hong Kong as a leading center for resolving disputes between states. Earlier in the week, Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee stated that the organization’s status would be “on par with the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration of the United Nations in The Hague.”

Alongside Pakistan, countries including Indonesia, Laos, Cambodia, and Serbia participated in the signing ceremony.

According to public broadcaster RTHK, representatives from 20 international organizations, including the United Nations, were also expected to be present.

Representing Pakistan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, signed the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) on behalf of Pakistan.

The event was held in Hong Kong, which is a Special Administrative Region of China.

Speaking at the ceremony, FM Dar commended the leadership of the People’s Republic of China for its vision and initiative in launching IOMed.

He called the organization’s creation “a significant step towards strengthening multilateralism and advancing global peace, stability, and development.”

As a founding member, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to resolving conflicts through peaceful means and supporting international cooperation.

Ishaq Dar emphasized the importance of “adhering to the principles of the UN Charter, fully implementing UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, and upholding international law” as essential elements for ensuring global peace and security.

Addressing regional concerns, Dar highlighted ongoing conflicts and violations of international law.

He condemned India’s military actions against Pakistan and its decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, as well as its continued occupation of Jammu and Kashmir.

He stressed the urgency of resolving the Kashmir issue “in line with the relevant UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.”

The situation in the Palestinian territories was also cited as a pressing challenge to international peace.

FM Dar concluded by expressing Pakistan’s anticipation of working with IOMed to promote inclusive and just global cooperation through dialogue and mediation.