Beijing (TDI): Executive Director of the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS), Muhammad Asif Noor, is participating in the ongoing Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing, representing Pakistan among international delegates from over 140 countries and regions.
The two-day conference, which opened on Thursday, is being held under the theme “Safeguarding Diversity of Human Civilizations for World Peace and Development.” It is jointly organized by the Publicity and International Departments of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee. The event is a key component of President Xi Jinping’s Global Civilization Initiative, which promotes dialogue, mutual learning, and inclusive development across cultures.
Muhammad Asif Noor, who heads one of Pakistan’s leading research and public diplomacy institutions, attended various sub-forums focused on cultural cooperation, people-to-people connectivity, and the role of civil society in international peacebuilding. He underscored the importance of intellectual and diplomatic engagement in shaping peaceful coexistence through intercultural understanding.
On the sidelines of the forum, Mr. Noor met with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, who is leading the country’s official delegation. During the meeting, the two discussed avenues for enhanced collaboration between government institutions and civil society organizations in promoting Pakistan’s cultural and media diplomacy abroad.
Speaking from Beijing, Mr. Noor stated that Pakistan’s presence at the dialogue reflects its continued support for multilateralism, diversity, and peaceful international cooperation. He noted that civil society organizations like IPDS have a vital role to play in extending the reach of cultural diplomacy and fostering sustained dialogue among civilizations.
The opening day of the conference featured a congratulatory message from President Xi Jinping, in which he called for greater unity through dialogue and mutual learning. Senior CPC official Cai Qi delivered the keynote address, while a message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres was also shared with participants.
The conference includes thematic sessions on civilizational diversity, technological advancement, innovation, and academic exchange. Former heads of state and international thought leaders are among the key speakers taking part in the ongoing discussions.
Mr. Noor’s participation in the forum marks a significant moment for non-governmental representation from Pakistan at a global dialogue of this scale. His engagements reflect a growing recognition of the role of think tanks and research institutions in advancing Pakistan’s soft power and building global partnerships for peace.
The ministerial meeting continues on Friday and is expected to conclude with a joint declaration emphasizing shared values, global cooperation, and the preservation of civilizational diversity.
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