London (GNP): Pakistan reiterated its strong commitment to the Commonwealth in its capacity as a founding member, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar conveying this message during a meeting with Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey at Marlborough House in London.
The Deputy Prime Minister voiced support for the Secretary-General’s vision and ongoing efforts to strengthen the Commonwealth, reaffirming Pakistan’s engagement with the organization’s priorities on youth development, climate resilience and economic growth, as well as its push to boost intra-Commonwealth trade through closer cooperation in the banking sector.
Dar pointed to Pakistan’s expertise in climate mitigation and disaster management, suggesting that other Commonwealth members could draw on this experience, and renewed Pakistan’s offer to host a Commonwealth Disaster Resilience Hub at the National Disaster Management Authority in Islamabad.
Both sides agreed to deepen cooperation and expand youth-focused initiatives across the Commonwealth, building on Pakistan’s role as co-chair of the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting, with the aim of generating greater opportunities for young people.
Dar also updated the Secretary-General on recent developments in the Middle East, including Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran.
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In response, Botchwey commended Dar personally for his mediation efforts, praising Pakistan’s contribution to averting a destructive conflict and promoting stability in the region.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
