‘Pakistan’s Parliament becomes world’s first to run entirely on solar energy’

GENEVA / ISLAMABAD (RNN TV) — Mr Hafeezullah Sheikh, Special Secretary of the Senate of Pakistan, addressed the session of the Association of Secretaries General of Parliaments (ASGP) during the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Geneva, where he highlighted Pakistan’s remarkable strides in transforming its Parliament into a modern, resilient, and citizen-centric institution.

Speaking at the prestigious global forum, Mr. Sheikh underscored that Pakistan’s Parliament holds the distinction of being the first in the world to operate entirely on solar energy—a landmark achievement reflecting the country’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and clean governance.

He further revealed that, under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Chairman Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani—former Prime Minister of Pakistan and founding President of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference—the Senate has embarked on developing an AI-powered chatbot. This cutting-edge digital tool will enable Members of Parliament and staff to instantly access legislative records, committee reports, and debates, thereby promoting efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness in the legislative process.

Mr. Sheikh’s participation also marked a historic milestone, as he became the first Pakistani officer to address the ASGP/IPU session twice. He had previously represented Pakistan at the 2024 session, and to date, only two Pakistanis have been invited to speak at this esteemed international platform.

Highlighting Pakistan’s forward-looking approach, Mr. Sheikh emphasized that these initiatives reflect the Senate’s determination to embrace technology, enhance institutional transparency, and set new global standards in parliamentary innovation and public service.

He concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to playing a leading role in promoting collaboration, innovation, and sustainability among parliaments worldwide.