ISLAMABAD, Oct 29 (APP): Chairman Senate of Pakistan Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Wednesday described the Constitution as the supreme covenant between the state and its people — a living embodiment of national will that ensures unity, justice, and accountability.
Addressing the International Parliamentary Conference dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Baku, Gilani underscored the vital role of constitutions in safeguarding the independence and sovereignty of states in today’s complex global environment.
Representing the Senate of Pakistan, the Chairman extended warm greetings from the Parliament, government, and people of Pakistan to the leadership and people of Azerbaijan.
He also expressed gratitude to Sahiba Gafarova, Speaker of the Milli Majlis, for her gracious invitation and warm hospitality.
Speaking on the theme “Constitution as the Foundation of the Independence and Sovereignty of States in the Contemporary World,” Gilani commended Azerbaijan for exemplifying constitutional order, unity, and resilience under the visionary leadership of President Ilham Aliyev.
Congratulating Azerbaijan on the upcoming 30th anniversary of its Constitution on November 12, he lauded the declaration of 2025 as the “Year of Constitution and Sovereignty,” terming it a tribute to the country’s enduring commitment to democratic values, progress, and peace.
Drawing parallels between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, Gilani said both nations share a historic journey rooted in faith, dignity, and constitutionalism.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s Constitution remains the cornerstone of the country’s sovereignty and democratic governance, reflecting the collective will of its people and safeguarding the independence of institutions and citizens’ rights.
Recalling his tenure as prime minister, the Chairman highlighted the passage of the 18th Constitutional Amendment in 2010 as a defining milestone that strengthened Pakistan’s federation by devolving powers to the provinces, deepening democratic governance, and enhancing national unity.
He informed the participants that Pakistan’s Parliament continues to advance constitutional democracy through reforms promoting human rights, women’s empowerment, judicial independence, and electoral integrity. These efforts, he said, have reinforced parliamentary supremacy and institutional balance, laying the foundation for stronger governance and national cohesion.
Addressing contemporary global challenges, Gilani noted that sovereignty now faces new tests from globalisation, digital monopolies, cyber threats, and climate change. He stressed that true sovereignty in the modern era must evolve through cooperation, collective responsibility, and adherence to international law.
Proposing key measures to strengthen constitutional democracy, Gilani called for empowering democratic institutions to reflect the true will of the people, investing in civic education to promote responsible citizenship, enhancing human and institutional capacity for modern challenges, and fostering national resilience and unity in uncertain times.
Highlighting Pakistan’s upcoming role as host of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) in Islamabad next month, the Chairman said the Baku gathering reaffirms the shared parliamentary commitment to constitutional democracy, sovereignty, and justice.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to uphold constitutionalism, equality, and mutual respect among nations, and thanked the Azerbaijani leadership for their hospitality and for organising a meaningful platform to strengthen global parliamentary cooperation.