The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, had a breakfast meeting with Commonwealth Secretary‑General, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, in London today.  

The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister congratulated her on her appointment as the seventh Secretary-General of the Commonwealth and welcomed her leadership. 

Reflecting on their earlier discussion at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister emphasized Pakistan’s deep commitment to the Commonwealth as a founding member and reaffirmed its steadfast support for the organization. He expressed confidence in the Commonwealth’s role as a vital platform for fostering shared values and building consensus among member states.

The DPM/FM assured the Secretary‑General of Pakistan’s strong commitment to the Commonwealth’s Sustainable Development and Connectivity agendas.  He underscored Pakistan’s intent to play a more active role in promoting intra‑Commonwealth trade and development. Additionally, he underscored Pakistan’s acute vulnerability to climate change and sought the Commonwealth’s support in addressing this pressing challenge. 

Underscoring Pakistan’s leadership in youth and gender initiatives, the DPM/FM noted Pakistan’s co‑chairmanship of the Commonwealth Youth Task Force and its role in modernising the Commonwealth Youth Programme. He also expressed pride in Pakistan’s role as host of the Secretariat of the Commonwealth Asia Youth Alliance. He appreciated the Commonwealth’s support for Pakistani youth and hailed the recent signing of the landmark Letter of Intent between the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and the British Esports Federation to collaboratively develop a vibrant Esports ecosystem in Pakistan.

The DPM/FM praised the Secretary‑General’s efforts in formulating the 2025–2030 Commonwealth Strategic Plan and offered Pakistan’s full cooperation in advancing the shared goals of development, democracy, and resilience.  

He also conveyed a warm invitation for Secretary General to visit Islamabad at her earliest convenience.

Islamabad
19 August 2025