Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani assumed the prestigious role ofchairperson for the 10th Commonwealth Youth Ministers’ Meeting (CWYMM), aremarkable event that took place in London from September 12 to 15, 2023.This momentous occasion marked a historic milestone, as it had been threedecades since Pakistan had last chaired a Commonwealth gathering. Thesignificance of this leadership role cannot be understated, considering thediverse and extensive reach of the Commonwealth.
A moment of true international collaboration unfolded as Youth Ministershailing from over 45 Commonwealth member states converged at the meeting.This congregation of nations was a part of the Commonwealth’s broaderinitiative to celebrate 2023 as the “Year of Youth,” reflecting theorganization’s commitment to addressing the needs and aspirations of itsyoung population.
During his tenure as chair of CWYMM, Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilaniunderscored the pivotal role played by the Commonwealth in shaping theglobal sustainable development agenda for the youth. He emphasized thatyouth constituted a substantial 60 percent of the Commonwealth’spopulation, a demographic treasure trove that should be harnessed forcollective progress.
A key focus of the discussions revolved around the pressing imperative tocreate ample opportunities for young individuals, enabling them to fullyharness their potential and contribute meaningfully to their societies.
In the spirit of international cooperation, the Foreign Minister sharedinsights into Pakistan’s flagship Youth Project, known as the “PrimeMinister’s Youth Programme,” which had successfully completed a decade ofempowering the nation’s youth.
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This program resonated with the core principles of the Commonwealth YouthProgramme, encapsulated by the four Es: Engagement, Education, Employment,and Environment. Pakistan demonstrated its unwavering commitment to youthdevelopment by allocating substantial resources, amounting to PKR 80billion, for various projects aligned with each of the 4Es.
Amidst the bustling activities of CWYMM, the Foreign Minister engaged inbilateral meetings with key figures, including the CommonwealthSecretary-General and Youth Ministers from Sri Lanka, Rwanda, Jamaica, andSamoa. These diplomatic interactions fostered dialogue and collaboration onmatters of mutual interest. Additionally, the Foreign Minister gracedreceptions hosted by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Mayor ofLondon, and the Pakistan High Commission in London, enhancing the sense ofcamaraderie and international goodwill
