Investing in youth key to building inclusive economies: PM

Cairo: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that investing in the youth will help create inclusive and resilient economies capable of addressing both current and future global challenges.

While addressing the D-8 Summit in Cairo on Thursday, he highlighted the critical roles of youth and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the economic development of any society. He noted that the youth bring energy, innovative ideas, and creativity, while SMEs generate jobs, encourage innovation, and foster entrepreneurship.

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Prime Minister Sharif urged D-8 member countries to focus on empowering youth and fostering entrepreneurship to tap into the potential of the young population, creating environments where small businesses can flourish.

Discussing Pakistan’s efforts for youth empowerment, the Prime Minister stressed that investing in youth and supporting SMEs is essential for the country’s socio-economic growth. With over 60% of Pakistan’s population under the age of 30, he pointed out that the country holds vast potential for innovation and development. However, unlocking this potential requires providing youth with the right skills, opportunities, and financial resources.

The Prime Minister noted that the summit presents an excellent opportunity for D-8 nations to exchange best practices, pool resources, and create cross-border programs that support youth and SMEs.
He also mentioned that Pakistan has approved the D-8 Preferential Trade Agreement and its dispute settlement protocols.

Prime Minister Sharif further emphasized that his government is committed to providing quality education, creating jobs, and offering productive opportunities through its flagship youth program.

He highlighted that Pakistan is home to one of the largest freelance communities globally and that the government is focusing on large-scale IT training to equip youth with the necessary tools to connect to the digital world and seize opportunities, ultimately enabling job seekers to become job creators.

Acknowledging the importance of connectivity for peace and prosperity, he stressed the need for enhanced transport connectivity among D-8 member states to establish efficient intra-trade corridors and reliable supply chains.

On the situation in Palestine and the broader Middle East, the Prime Minister asserted that a ceasefire in Gaza is essential for peace, prosperity, and progress not just in the region, but globally.
Lastly, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed Azerbaijan as a new member of the D-8 nations.