SECDIV-NIPS Islamabad International Conference – 2022

Strategic Export Control Division (SECDIV) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in collaboration with NUST Institute of Policy Studies (NIPS), organized two days international conference on “Promoting Strategic Trade Controls through International Cooperation” on 5-6 September 2022 at NUST Islamabad.
The focus of conference was to develop a greater understanding of Strategic Trade Management (STM), legislative and enforcement framework of the participating states and exchange of best practices for enhancing effectiveness and facilitation of legitimate trade. It also aimed to promote dialogue for international cooperation on peaceful uses of goods and technologies for attainment of UN Sustainable developmental Goals (UNSDGs) through effective implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs). The conference served as a platform to reinforce networking among export control community for promoting global efforts against proliferation of weapon of mass destruction (WMD) and their delivery system.
The conference was widely participated, including many foreign delegates that include senior government representatives of various countries, independent experts, practitioners, leaders of think tanks, and students. The sessions were also graced by the chairs of Nuclear Supplier Group (NSG) and Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) and UNSCR-1540 Committee representative.
Concluding the Conference, Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood underscored that, as a country with extensive expertise, experience and technological capabilities, Pakistan clearly qualifies for participation in the existing multilateral export control regimes. “Pakistan’s participation in these regimes will further their non-proliferation objectives”, he added.
The Conference was followed by a field visit of the participants to Pakistan Centre of Excellence for Nuclear Security (PCENS) – an internationally recognized training Centre in the field of nuclear security and physical protection. At PCENS, participants were briefed about national nuclear security architecture that had evolved over the years at par with international standards.
Besides showcasing Pakistan’s credentials of non-proliferation, such events reflect Pakistan’s commitment as a partner in global non-proliferation efforts and for the promotion of international trade for peaceful uses of technology to uplift socio-economic development.