Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani chaired the 10th Commonwealth Youth Ministers’ Meeting (CWYMM) in London from 12-15 September 2023. This marked the first time in 30 years that Pakistan chaired a Commonwealth event.
More than 45 Commonwealth states’ Youth Ministers participated in the meeting, which was part of the Commonwealth’s commemoration of 2023 as the “Year of Youth.”
While chairing the CWYMM, the Foreign Minister emphasized the Commonwealth’s role in shaping youth engagement in the global sustainable development agenda. He highlighted that youth constituted 60 percent of the Commonwealth’s population, which was its biggest asset. The participants also discussed the critical need to create opportunities for young people to fully realize their potential.
The Foreign Minister briefed the participants on the Government of Pakistan’s flagship Youth Project, the “Prime Minister’s Youth Programme,” which has completed its 10 years. He mentioned that this program closely aligns with the objectives set under the four Es of the Commonwealth Youth Programme: Engagement, Education, Employment, and Environment. The Government of Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development for the current financial year by allocating projects worth PKR 80 billion, making specific commitments under each of the 4Es.
On the CWYMM sidelines, the Foreign Minister held bilateral meetings with the Commonwealth Secretary General and Youth Ministers of Sri Lanka, Rwanda, Jamaica, and Samoa. He also attended receptions hosted by the Commonwealth Secretary General, London Mayor, and Pakistan High Commission in London.
A resplendent display of Pakistan’s vibrant colors and intricate designs was showcased at the CWYMM venue through traditional Truck Art scooters and blue pottery, which was well appreciated by the participants.
Pakistan attaches great significance to the Commonwealth and remains committed to maintaining its close engagement with the organization.
