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ISLAMABAD, Jan 12 (APP):Marking the beginning of one of the country’s most anticipated academic diplomacy platforms, the four-day NUST International Model United Nations (NIMUN) 2026, was held at the university main campus.
Hosted by NUST Business School (NBS), NIMUN’s opening ceremony welcomed distinguished guests, chairs, delegates, and international delegations from Uzbekistan, Syria, and Afghanistan, setting the tone for four days of meaningful dialogue and collaboration grounded in the fundamental spirit of the United Nations.
Rector NUST Dr Muhammad Zahid Latif delivered an insightful and thought-provoking speech.
He reflected upon the historical evolution of the United Nations, tracing its formation from the ashes of global conflict to its current status as the cornerstone of international peacekeeping, collaboration, and humanitarian advocacy.
He encouraged delegates to reflect deeply on the discussions they would engage in during the conference and to critically examine the path humanity is collectively charting towards lasting peace and to recognise their role in shaping a future defined by peace, cooperation, and shared responsibility.
The ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Ms Mio Sato, United Nations Resident Coordinator (Acting) and Chief of Mission in Pakistan at the International Organization for Migration (IOM), who honored the occasion as the chief guest and keynote speaker.
In her address, she emphasised that diplomacy extends far beyond the realms of debate, negotiation, and argumentation.
She highlighted that at the heart of effective diplomacy lies the art of listening to diverse perspectives, and realities, and then thoughtfully translating that into action. Ms Sato stressed that diplomacy is something that must be carried into daily life while reflection on the UN as a silent symbol of peace and humanitarian responsibility.
The ceremony also featured an address by Dr Naukhez Sarwar, Dean and Principal, NUST Business School, who highlighted the decade long legacy of NIMUN, nurturing countless young diplomats, critical thinkers, researchers, and leaders.
Dr Sarwar welcomed delegates back to NUST, reaffirming the university’s commitment to academic excellence and global engagement.
With its formal commencement, NIMUN 2026 has set the stage for four days of rigorous debate, diplomacy, and cross-cultural engagement among emerging leaders.