London: The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, held a meeting with Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey at Marlborough House in London. The discussions focused on strengthening Pakistan’s relationship with the Commonwealth, with a particular emphasis on youth development, climate resilience, and economic cooperation.

According to High Commission For Pakistan – United Kingdom, Senator Dar reiterated Pakistan’s dedication as a founding member to the Commonwealth’s goals and highlighted the country’s support for the Secretary-General’s initiatives aimed at bolstering the Organisation. He expressed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the Commonwealth’s agendas on youth, climate resilience, and economic development, and stressed the importance of promoting intra-Commonwealth trade through institutionalized banking sector cooperation.

In the realm of climate mitigation and disaster management, Senator Dar proposed that Commonwealth member states could benefit from Pakistan’s expertise, offering to host the Commonwealth Disaster Resilience Hub at Islamabad’s National Disaster Management Authority. The Secretary-General expressed interest in this proposal, recognizing the potential for enhanced disaster preparedness among Commonwealth nations.

The meeting also addressed youth development, where both leaders agreed to enhance cooperation and activities under Pakistan’s co-chairmanship of the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting. This initiative is aimed at ensuring more significant benefits and opportunities for young individuals across the Commonwealth.

Additionally, Senator Dar briefed Secretary-General Botchwey on recent developments in the Middle East, highlighting Pakistan’s role in mediating peace between the United States and Iran. The Secretary-General commended Pakistan and Senator Dar for their efforts in averting conflict and contributing to regional peace and stability.