https://arab.news/pe65b
- Dar says Pakistan wants to spend on health, education but lacks access to global financial markets
- He maintains the world should prioritize debt relief and restructuring along with climate financing
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar called for an equitable global financial architecture during the Executive Session of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, state-owned media reported on Saturday, stressing the need to support developing countries in meeting their economic needs.
Dar, who also holds the foreign ministry portfolio, is leading Pakistan’s delegation at the Commonwealth gathering, which began on Monday, to present Islamabad’s stance on key global issues.
The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent nations, with roots tracing back to the British Empire. Today, any country can be part of it, with Gabon and Togo being the most recent members, joining in 2022.
“Addressing the gathering, he said the global community should prioritize debt relief and restructuring, sustainable investments in resilient infrastructure, enhanced access to climate financing and digital and financial inclusion in addition to strengthening multilateral cooperation,” Radio Pakistan reported.
“Ishaq Dar said Pakistan recognizes the pressing need for investments in health, education and infrastructure, yet it faces significant challenges due to the limited access to international financial markets and impacts of climate change,” it added.
Dar also highlighted Pakistan’s active participation in Commonwealth working groups on the digital economy and sustainable finance, saying it reflecting the country’s commitment to integrating innovative solutions into its economic strategy.
He also engaged with the heads of delegations from other Commonwealth member states on the sidelines of the conference.