Commonwealth SG arrives in Pakistan on Sunday

Islamabad: Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland is set to embark on her inaugural official visit to Pakistan, starting from Sunday and continuing until the 2nd of the next month, following an invitation from the Government of Pakistan.

During her stay, Secretary-General Scotland will engage with Pakistan’s leadership, cabinet members, youth leaders, civil society representatives, and other key stakeholders.Pakistan Calls for Enhanced UN-Regional Cooperation

A dedicated advocate for assisting Pakistan in addressing the severe impacts of climate change, the Commonwealth Secretary-General will reaffirm her support for the country. This visit coincides with the second anniversary of the devastating 2022 floods, which inundated a third of Pakistan and inflicted damages exceeding $30 billion. She is expected to visit some of the flood-affected regions.

The discussions during her visit will also cover ways to bolster cooperation between Pakistan and the Commonwealth in various domains of mutual interest, such as supporting Pakistan’s national development agenda, empowering youth, and enhancing trade and investment.

With the Commonwealth designating 2023-24 as the “Year of Youth” and Pakistan chairing the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting, the Secretary-General will receive comprehensive briefings on the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme and emphasize the benefits Commonwealth membership offers to young people.

As one of the founding members of the organization, Pakistan regards the Commonwealth as a vital platform for building consensus on global issues and challenges.

The visit of the Commonwealth Secretary-General represents a significant opportunity to further strengthen the enduring partnership between Pakistan and the Commonwealth.