Pakistan has reaffirmed its strong commitment to the Commonwealth as a founding member.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar expressed these views during a meeting with Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey at Marlborough House in London today.

The Deputy Prime Minister underscored Pakistan's support for the Secretary-General's vision and efforts to further strengthen the Commonwealth.

He also reiterated Pakistan's commitment to the organization's agendas on youth development, climate resilience and economic development, as well as promoting intra-Commonwealth trade through institutionalized cooperation in the banking sector.

Ishaq Dar highlighted Pakistan's expertise in climate mitigation and disaster management and said Commonwealth member states could benefit from Pakistan's experience in these areas.

He renewed Pakistan's offer to host the Commonwealth Disaster Resilience Hub at the National Disaster Management Authority in Islamabad.

The two sides also agreed to further strengthen cooperation and enhance youth-related activities across the Commonwealth under Pakistan's co-chairmanship of the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting, with a view to creating greater opportunities and benefits for young people.

During the meeting, Ishaq Dar also briefed the Commonwealth Secretary-General on recent developments in the Middle East, including Pakistan's role in efforts to broker peace between the United States and Iran.

Shirley Botchwey congratulated Pakistan, particularly the Deputy Prime Minister, on his efforts and mediation in this regard. She appreciated Pakistan's contribution towards averting a destructive conflict and promoting peace and stability in the region.