Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif accentuated youth investment to generate a combination of inclusive and robust economies to penetrate global challenges. While addressing the D-8 Summit held in Cairo, he also emphasized the issue that the youth alongside small and medium enterprises (SMEs) could act as catalysts for economic development. While youth brings energy, youthful ideas, and creativity, SMEs produce jobs and encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.
Sharif called upon member states of the D-8 to focus on youth empowerment and entrepreneurship. This should help harness the might of the young population and develop environments where small businesses can flourish. He indicated that the development of youth and the economy through SMEs will pave the way for Pakistan’s socio-economic development. Almost sixty percent of the population is under thirty, and there is plenty of room for innovation and growth in Pakistan. Potential unlocking is said to be conditioned on providing adequate skills, opportunities, and monetary resources.
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The Chief of the Nation mentioned that the summit is an excellent opportunity for D-8 countries to share best practices, pool resources, and create programs that pursue youth and SMEs across borders. Besides this, Pakistan has also approved the D-8 Preferential Trade Agreement along with its protocols on dispute settlement mechanisms in implementation.
The prime minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to quality education, jobs, and productive pursuits through its flagship program on youth. He pointed out that Pakistan is home to one of the largest freelance communities in the world and pointed out that the government is primarily focusing on IT training so that the youth can get into the digital world and make the most of the opportunities.
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He highlighted the importance of connectivity, in particular developing transport connectivity between D-8 member states in an efficient inner-trade corridor and reliable supply chains, for peace and prosperity. Sharif further noted that a ceasefire in Gaza must happen for peace, prosperity, and progress globally, especially in terms of Palestine and the Middle East. Besides that, he welcomed Azerbaijan as a new member of the D-8 countries.