Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), recently participated in the prestigious “Primakov Readings 2025” International Dialogue Forum hosted by the Institute of World Economy and International Relations (IMEMO) in Moscow. The high-level event gathered policymakers, leading practitioners, academics, and reputable experts from various countries to deliberate on pressing global strategic issues.
During the forum, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov delivered a comprehensive keynote address, highlighting Russia’s foreign policy vision amidst the rapidly evolving global landscape. Minister Lavrov emphasized key strategic directions shaping international relations and Russia’s engagement strategies on the global stage.
In his interventions, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood presented Pakistan’s viewpoint on critical regional and international matters. He provided insights into issues affecting strategic stability in South Asia, emphasizing the significance of managing security challenges to ensure regional peace and stability. Ambassador Mahmood specifically addressed the recent conflict between India and Pakistan, elaborating on the root causes, implications for regional security, and the importance of dialogue as a constructive pathway forward.
Additionally, Ambassador Mahmood articulated Pakistan’s perspectives on the global trends of trade tensions and tariff wars, underlining the detrimental economic impacts of escalating protectionism. He stressed the necessity for international cooperation, rules-based economic governance, and dialogue among nations to resolve trade disputes effectively.
Furthermore, Ambassador Mahmood touched upon the complexities arising from major-power competition. He discussed how shifting dynamics between leading global powers are affecting countries worldwide, advocating for policies promoting cooperation, inclusive multilateralism, and conflict resolution through international diplomatic frameworks.
The forum served as a valuable platform for exchanging diverse perspectives and building a better understanding of contemporary diplomatic, strategic, and economic issues. Ambassador Mahmood’s participation underscored the significance Pakistan attaches to contributing constructively to international dialogue aimed at addressing global and regional challenges.
