ISLAMABAD, Aug 1 (APP):Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland on Thursday announced the launch of an Asian youth initiative with a regional secretariat based in Pakistan, aimed at harnessing the talent and potential of the country’s youth.
Speaking to PTV News, she said that her visit aimed to strengthening the partnership between Pakistan and Commonwealth.
She said, “We are delighted to establish the regional secretariat in Pakistan, a nation with a vibrant and intelligent young population. This initiative will benefit the 65 percent of Pakistanis under the age of 30.”
She emphasized that the Commonwealth’s youth agenda is a priority, with the organization designating 2023-2024 as the ‘Year of Youth.’
During her visit, she praised the innovative work of students at NUST University and underscored the opportunities the Commonwealth offers to young people. She noted that Commonwealth values Pakistan for building consensus on global issues, including climate action.
SG highlighted the devastating impact of the 2022 floods in Pakistan, which caused over $30 billion in damage and affected 30 million people. She stressed the importance of the Commonwealth’s role in advocating for climate justice, particularly for countries like Pakistan.
Pakistan suffered disproportionately from climate-related disasters despite contributing minimally to global emissions, she said.
She said, “Our commitment is clear: Pakistan needs and deserves support in facing these existential threats.”
