The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, will undertake her first official visit to Pakistan from July 28 to August 2, 2024, at the invitation of the Government of Pakistan.
During her five-day visit, Secretary-General Scotland is scheduled to meet with Pakistan’s leadership, cabinet members, youth leaders, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders. The visit underscores her commitment to supporting Pakistan, particularly in addressing the adverse impacts of climate change.
As an advocate for Pakistan’s climate resilience, Secretary-General Scotland’s visit coincides with the second anniversary of the devastating 2022 floods, which submerged a third of the country and caused over $30 billion in damage. She is expected to tour some of the flood-affected areas to reaffirm her solidarity with the nation.
The visit will also focus on enhancing cooperation between Pakistan and the Commonwealth in areas of mutual interest. Discussions will cover support for Pakistan’s national development plan, youth empowerment, and boosting trade and investment.
With 2023/24 designated as the “Year of Youth” by the Commonwealth and Pakistan chairing the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting, the Secretary-General will be briefed on the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme. She will highlight the opportunities Commonwealth membership offers to young people in Pakistan.
As a founding member of the Commonwealth, Pakistan views the organization as a crucial forum for consensus-building on global issues. The Secretary-General’s visit aims to strengthen the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the Commonwealth.
