The China Program at the Institute of Regional Studies, Islamabad convened a seminar to examine the role of multilateralism in preserving shared interests amid a fragmented global order marked by geopolitical tension and unilateral actions. Speakers assessed how China-led initiatives can address development gaps, manage conflicts and support a rules-based international system.
Amb. Jauhar Saleem opened the session and a keynote address was delivered by Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Chairman of the Pakistan-China Institute. The discussion brought together Pakistani and international scholars and diplomats, including Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal of Quaid-i-Azam University, Amb. Naela Chohan, Dr. Manzoor Afridi of IIUI, Dr. Qian Feng from Tsinghua University, Dr. Noor Fatima of IIUI, Dr. Talat Shabbir of ISSI, and Mr. Wang Shengjie from the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad.
Panelists warned that a trend toward unilateral actions by some states has weakened international institutions and undermined peace and stability. India’s recent military posture was cited as an example of how unilateralism can exacerbate regional tensions. Against this backdrop, participants argued that multilateralism is not optional but essential for conflict prevention, collective security and sustainable development.
China’s role in promoting multilateralism was highlighted through its global initiatives and the broad participation in the Belt and Road Initiative. Speakers described China’s approach as development-oriented and inclusive, emphasizing shared prosperity and dignity for all. This framing, they said, lends legitimacy to China’s calls for reform in global governance and for strengthening cooperative platforms that can bridge development divides.
Concerns were raised about erosion of trust in multilateral systems caused by veto politics and selective engagement. To counter this, panelists urged the reinvention of mediation mechanisms that are preventive, inclusive and collective in nature. They called for mediation frameworks that respond to contemporary realities and prioritize early engagement to prevent escalation of conflicts.
The event, organized and moderated by Ms. Nabila Jaffer, Senior Research Analyst and Head of the China Program at IRS, underscored Pakistan’s stake in strengthening multilateral diplomacy. Discussions pointed to practical steps for Islamabad to engage with China-led processes and international partners to reinforce institutions that can protect shared interests and promote regional stability.
