Senator Khalil Tahir Sandhu and Shahid Rehmat Stress Dialogue, Youth Engagement, and Interfaith Harmony as Keys to Lasting Peace

Honolulu, United States: Pakistan’s growing diplomatic and peacebuilding role on the global stage was highlighted at an international conference titled “Religion and Human Flourishing: Building Pathways to Peaceful Societies in South Asia,” where Senator Khalil Tahir Sandhu and Shahid Rehmat, Executive Director of the Youth Development Foundation, represented the country as keynote speaker and panelist while addressing an audience of global policymakers, religious leaders, and scholars.

Senator Khalil Tahir Sandhu emphasized Pakistan’s emerging position as a bridge-builder in regional and international conflicts, particularly in the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. He stated that Pakistan has actively contributed to mediation efforts by facilitating dialogue, conveying messages between both sides, and supporting ceasefire initiatives aimed at preventing further escalation in an already volatile region.

He noted that Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement has helped create space for negotiations and reduce tensions despite persistent challenges and setbacks in the peace process. Reiterating Pakistan’s stance, he said that dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual respect remain the only sustainable pathways to peace and that Pakistan views its role not merely as political involvement but as a responsibility towards global stability and human dignity.

Meanwhile, Shahid Rehmat, speaking as a panelist, highlighted the critical role of youth and civil society in peacebuilding processes. He emphasized that lasting peace cannot be achieved solely through high-level diplomacy but requires strong grassroots engagement as well.

He shared the Youth Development Foundation’s work in countering hate, promoting interfaith harmony, and strengthening youth resilience against extremism, adding that peacebuilding is not confined to diplomatic negotiations but is cultivated within communities where empowering young people with values of acceptance and understanding is essential for sustainable peace.

The participation of Pakistani representatives at the conference underscored the country’s commitment to constructive diplomacy, interfaith cooperation, and conflict resolution, further positioning Pakistan as an emerging and responsible voice for peace in complex global conflicts.