Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to partnership with the Commonwealth.
Speaking at a media briefing along with Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Scotland, he said that Pakistan attaches great importance to the Commonwealth and its institutions, saying it is an important platform for building consensus and developing partnerships in the face of unprecedented global challenges.
Ishaq Dar said the Commonwealth should more urgently call for the resolution of remaining disputes between member states and push for respect for international law and the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions.
The foreign minister said Pakistan’s vision for regional connectivity and trade aligns with the Commonwealth’s connectivity agenda.
He said Pakistan sees huge opportunities for cooperation with the Commonwealth in realizing development goals, particularly in education, skill development, youth and women empowerment, health and environmental protection.
He said Pakistan supports the Commonwealth’s goal of increasing intra-Commonwealth trade to two trillion dollars by 2030. He said that this will not only provide employment opportunities for the youth but also create conditions for mutually beneficial cooperation between member states.
Ishaq Dar said he briefed the Commonwealth Secretary General on Pakistan’s policy to combat climate change. He said Pakistan will work with the Commonwealth to develop resilience against climate disasters.
Speaking on the occasion, the Commonwealth Secretary General commended the resilience and determination shown by Pakistan after the floods of 2022. She said the Commonwealth stood in solidarity with the people of Pakistan during these difficult times.
