Ishaq Dar, Commonwealth Chief Discuss Climate Resilience, Youth Development and Regional Peace

LONDON: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey at Marlborough House in London, reaffirming Pakistan’s strong commitment to the Commonwealth and discussing cooperation on youth development, climate resilience, economic growth and regional peace.

During the meeting, Ishaq Dar underscored Pakistan’s commitment to the Commonwealth as a founding member and expressed support for the Secretary-General’s vision and efforts to strengthen the organisation.

The Deputy Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the Commonwealth’s youth, climate resilience and economic development agendas. He also stressed the importance of promoting intra-Commonwealth trade through institutionalised cooperation in the banking sector.

Highlighting Pakistan’s experience in climate mitigation and disaster management, Ishaq Dar said Commonwealth member states could benefit from Pakistan’s expertise in these areas. He renewed Pakistan’s offer to host the Commonwealth Disaster Resilience Hub at the National Disaster Management Authority in Islamabad.

Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey welcomed the offer and expressed the Commonwealth Secretariat’s keen interest in working with Pakistan to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience capabilities among member states.

The two leaders also agreed to further enhance cooperation on youth development and expand youth-related activities across the Commonwealth under Pakistan’s co-chairmanship of the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting. The initiative aims to provide greater opportunities and benefits to young people across member states.

Ishaq Dar also briefed the Commonwealth Secretary-General on recent developments in the Middle East, including Pakistan’s role in facilitating peace between the United States and Iran.

Secretary-General Botchwey felicitated Pakistan, particularly the Deputy Prime Minister, for his sustained diplomatic and mediation efforts between the United States and Iran. She appreciated Pakistan’s contribution toward averting a destructive conflict and promoting peace and stability in the region.