IDD at the 6th International Workshop for Leadership and Strategy
Nargiz Ismailova, Head of Partnerships at the Institute for Development and Diplomacy, participated in the 6th International Workshop for Leadership and Stability (6th IWLS), held in Islamabad from 8 to 14 February 2026.
The high-level international platform brought together policymakers, scholars, and experts from various countries to engage in forward-looking discussions on global transformation, regional security, economic development, and the evolving nature of leadership in a rapidly changing world.
One of the central highlights of the programme was the official engagement at the National Defence University and the visit to the Parliament House, where participants engaged directly with senior leadership.
A particularly significant moment of the workshop was the meeting with the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari. During the discussion, Ms. Nargiz Ismailova addressed the President with a question regarding the future prospects for strengthening cooperation between the two countries, emphasizing opportunities for expanding strategic partnerships and deepening bilateral engagement. The exchange underscored the importance of dialogue and international collaboration in today’s complex geopolitical environment.
Throughout the week, participants explored pressing global issues, including understanding the transforming global order and regional dynamics, which analyzed major shifts in the international system and their impact on regional stability, as well as Pakistan’s economic frontier: opportunities in trade, investment, and entrepreneurship, highlighting pathways for growth, innovation, and cross-border cooperation.
The programme also featured institutional and cultural visits, including the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park, providing participants with firsthand insight into Pakistan’s technological and innovation ecosystem. All sessions were led by distinguished experts and senior officials from Pakistan and other participating countries, creating a vibrant environment for the exchange of ideas and professional networking.