At the 11th D-8 Summit in Cairo, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the critical role of youth investment in driving Pakistan’s socioeconomic growth. With over 60% of Pakistan’s population under 30, he emphasized that harnessing this vast potential requires targeted skill development, opportunities, and financial support. The summit, centered on “Investing in Youth and Supporting SMEs,” underlined the importance of youth and small businesses as the backbone of economic development. PM Shehbaz detailed initiatives like the PM’s Youth Programme, which has provided over 600,000 laptops, and the Youth Business and Agricultural Loan Scheme, helping young Pakistanis launch and expand businesses.
In his address, the Prime Minister also stressed the need for enhanced intra-trade connectivity among D-8 nations and praised projects like the Pakistan-Iran-Turkiye Corridor. He discussed the importance of the IT sector, noting Pakistan’s position as home to one of the largest freelance communities globally, and the government’s efforts to equip youth with the digital tools needed for entrepreneurship.
Additionally, PM Shehbaz reiterated his call for a ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing that global peace and prosperity hinge on resolving the crisis. He urged D-8 nations to unite in promoting humanitarian efforts and sustainable peace.
On the sidelines, PM Shehbaz met with several leaders, including Bangladesh’s Dr. Muhammad Yunus, to enhance bilateral relations, trade, and cultural exchange, and discussed mutual development goals. He also extended an invitation to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to visit Pakistan, strengthening ties with the country.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE