Pakistan has officially joined China’s newly established International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed), a global dispute resolution body based in Hong Kong, the Foreign Office announced on Friday.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar signed the founding convention during a ceremony attended by representatives from several countries including Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Serbia. Delegates from about 20 international organizations, including the United Nations, were also expected to participate, according to Hong Kong’s public broadcaster RTHK.
“IOMed presents new opportunities and renewed hopes for building a more inclusive, just, and equitable world. As a founding member, Pakistan is committed to playing an active role in this important mission,” Dar said in a statement.
The organisation, driven by China, aims to serve as a neutral platform for peaceful dispute resolution with aspirations to reach the stature of the International Court of Justice.
At the event, Dar praised China’s leadership in initiating IOMed and reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to multilateral diplomacy.
“The establishment of IOMed highlights the critical role of multilateralism as a foundation for international peace, stability, and development,” he stated.
He emphasized Pakistan’s intention to remain a proactive participant and described the forum as a tool for fostering a fairer and more inclusive global order.
A Vision for Shared Peace
The concept of IOMed was first introduced at China’s 2nd Belt and Road Forum in 2019, with formal negotiations starting in 2021. Pakistan was invited early on as a negotiating partner and co-signatory.
According to the Pakistani Foreign Office, the organisation seeks to encourage trust-based dialogue, respect national sovereignty, and incorporate diverse legal traditions in its mediation work.
Using the platform, Dar highlighted what he termed India’s “violation of international law,” referencing the situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. He also mentioned the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.
“Resolving long-standing disputes, especially Jammu and Kashmir, in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, is essential for regional peace,” Dar said.
China has positioned IOMed as an inclusive mediation framework open to all nations regardless of their legal systems or political affiliations.
“Through our involvement in IOMed, Pakistan brings both its rich diplomatic experience and a steadfast commitment to peace, equity, and justice,” Dar concluded, urging member countries to empower the organisation to achieve its full potential.
