By Our Correspondent
PARIS: Pakistan’s delegation — led by Senator Khalil Tahir Sandhu, the only Christian Senator in the Senate of Pakistan, and Shahid Rehmat, Executive Director of the Youth Development Foundation (YDF) — proudly represented Pakistan at the Paris Peace Forum 2025, one of the world’s leading platforms promoting collective action for “Peace, People, and the Planet.”
During the Forum, the delegation met with President Emmanuel Macron of France, Rt. Hon. Jacinda Ardern, Former Prime Minister of New Zealand, the Secretary-General of the Paris Peace Forum, Members of the European Parliament, and several global peace activists and parliamentarians. These interactions highlighted Pakistan’s active engagement in global conversations on peacebuilding, inclusion, and social cohesion.
Senator Khalil Tahir Sandhu underscored the Government of Pakistan’s key initiatives for peacebuilding, minority inclusion, and interfaith harmony, including the Punjab Interfaith Harmony Policy, the Minority Advisory Council, and partnerships with civil society to promote tolerance at all levels.
“Pakistan is taking bold and meaningful steps to institutionalize peace and inclusion,” said Senator Sandhu. “Under our government’s vision, every citizen — regardless of religion or background — deserves justice, dignity, and equal opportunity. Diversity is our strength and unity our future.”
Shahid Rehmat, representing YDF, highlighted how Pakistani youth are driving grassroots change through dialogue, digital innovation, and social entrepreneurship.
“At YDF, we believe peace begins with people,” said Rehmat. “Through our youth-led programs, we are building bridges across faiths and communities, empowering thousands to become champions of tolerance and coexistence.”
The delegation also explored partnerships with international organizations to expand cooperation on religious freedom (FoRB), digital safety, and inclusive development. Their participation reflects Pakistan’s growing leadership in promoting pluralism and its commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through peace-centered governance.
Senator Sandhu and Mr. Rehmat expressed gratitude to the Government of France and the Paris Peace Forum Secretariat for organizing a truly inspiring and impactful global platform.
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“Engaging with world leaders and sharing Pakistan’s journey of coexistence was both humbling and hopeful,” Senator Sandhu noted. “We return home inspired to strengthen partnerships that make peace real in the lives of people.”
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