London (Web Desk): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a meeting with Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey at Marlborough House in London on Wednesday, where he shared an update on the latest situation in the Middle East, including Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to facilitate peace between the United States (US) and Iran.
According to a statement issued by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding commitment to the Commonwealth as one of its founding members.
He expressed the country’s continued backing for Botchwey’s vision and initiatives aimed at further strengthening the organisation.
DPM Dar also highlighted Pakistan’s support for the Commonwealth’s priorities concerning young people, climate resilience and economic progress.
He said Pakistan remained committed to expanding trade among member states by encouraging greater cooperation and coordination within the banking sector.
Speaking about Pakistan’s experience in dealing with climate-related challenges and natural disasters, the deputy prime minister said Commonwealth countries could make use of Pakistan’s knowledge and expertise in these areas.
DPM Dar renewed Pakistan’s offer to establish the Commonwealth Disaster Resilience Hub at the National Disaster Management Authority in Islamabad.
Shirley Botchwey welcomed Pakistan’s proposal and expressed the Secretariat’s willingness to work closely with Islamabad to improve disaster preparedness and response capabilities across Commonwealth member states.
The two sides also agreed to step up joint efforts focused on young people and expand youth-oriented programmes across Commonwealth countries.
The discussion took place in the context of Pakistan’s co-chairmanship of the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting, with both leaders stressing the need to provide young people with better opportunities and greater benefits.
The Commonwealth Secretary-General also praised Pakistan, particularly Ishaq Dar, for his sustained diplomatic engagement and mediation efforts between the United States and Iran.
She thanked him for contributing to efforts that helped prevent a devastating war and supported peace and stability in the region.