**By Tariq Usmani | Published by ANI**
The crisp, bright mornings of Paris have often witnessed the opening of new chapters in global politics and diplomacy. In 2025, I had the distinct honour of representing Pakistan at the 8th Paris Peace Forum, where I witnessed firsthand the intellectual and diplomatic discussions shaping the global agenda.
Following that memorable experience, I had hoped to continue this engagement by attending the 9th Paris Peace Forum, held on November 10 and 11, 2026, at the historic Palais de Chaillot in Paris. My name was included on the official participants' list, and all arrangements had been completed. However, an unavoidable family commitment arose at the eleventh hour, compelling me to postpone my journey to Paris.
Nevertheless, a journalist's connection with global developments is not limited by geographical distance. From Islamabad, I closely followed the detailed proceedings and statements delivered by world leaders from the forum's opening day on November 10. Reflecting on my participation last year, I felt connected to the discussions taking place in Paris, where important ideas about the future of the international community were being debated.
This year's central theme, **"From Sovereignty to Cooperation,"** reflects the realities of today's rapidly changing global landscape. At a time marked by geopolitical divisions, economic pressures and the rapid emergence of new technologies, countries can no longer address major challenges in isolation. The emphasis placed by Forum President Philippe Étienne and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on revitalising multilateralism during the opening session highlighted the growing importance of collective international action.
Among the developments reported from Paris, the special **Child Summit**, held on November 10, and the discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) particularly attracted my attention. Technology has become deeply embedded in our daily lives and is increasingly influencing the thinking and development of children. French President Emmanuel Macron's position that unverified or untested AI models should not be placed in children's hands is therefore particularly significant.
The signing of the **"Children First Declaration"** by several countries, including France, the United Arab Emirates, Germany and Spain, alongside the United Nations, reflects a growing international commitment to addressing the risks associated with children's exposure to emerging technologies. The reported pledge of €8 million by leading technology companies, including OpenAI and Anthropic, together with safety organisations, to support research into AI's effects on children's cognitive and physical development is another important initiative.
For developing countries such as Pakistan, with a large young population, these discussions carry particular relevance. Protecting children while ensuring responsible access to technological opportunities must become an important part of national policy.
Another significant development on the forum's first day was the launch of the **"Together for Science and Health"** movement by World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and President Macron. In recent years, misinformation circulating on social media has undermined public confidence in science and healthcare. The participation of more than 240 global institutions in this initiative signals an effort to strengthen public trust in scientific research, reliable information and healthcare systems.
The concluding day of the forum, November 11, 2026, also carries considerable importance. Alongside discussions on children's rights and welfare, the programme includes deliberations on 40 innovative initiatives selected under the **"Call for Solutions"** from 607 submissions worldwide. The top 10 projects are expected to be selected for a year-long Scale-Up Programme.
International experts are also addressing pressing global challenges, including climate change, the supply of critical minerals, cybersecurity and agricultural food security. These issues require practical solutions, international coordination and sustained cooperation among governments, institutions and the private sector.
Overall, the Paris Peace Forum 2026 conveys an important message: the strength of sovereignty in today's interconnected world lies not in confrontation or isolation, but in cooperation, human welfare and the protection of future generations.
For Pakistan and other countries in the region, the discussions in Paris offer valuable lessons. Policymakers must give greater attention to responsible technological development, healthcare, education and the protection of children, while aligning national priorities with evolving international standards.
Ultimately, lasting peace and sustainable progress can only be achieved when nations recognise that shared challenges demand shared responsibility and collective action.
