Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has termed the 11th D-8 Summit a unique opportunity to foster collaboration among member states, particularly in the realm of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Addressing the summit, hosted by Egypt, the Prime Minister congratulated the Egyptian leadership and welcomed Azerbaijan as the newest member of the D-8. He expressed confidence in Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s ability to contribute significantly to the organization’s objectives.
Highlighting the role of youth and SMEs, PM Shehbaz stated, “Young people and SMEs are the key drivers of economic growth. Youth bring energy, innovation, and creativity, while SMEs create jobs, boost local businesses, and foster innovation. Empowering youth is crucial for D-8 member nations.”
The theme of this year’s summit, “Investing in Youth and Promoting SMEs for Inclusive Prosperity,” was described by the Prime Minister as a blueprint for collective progress in the 21st century. He emphasized the importance of investing in youth and promoting SMEs for sustainable socio-economic development.
With over 60% of Pakistan’s population under 30, PM Shehbaz underscored the government’s commitment to providing quality education, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities. He highlighted key initiatives under Pakistan’s flagship youth program, including:
- Distribution of over 600,000 laptops and thousands of scholarships since 2013.
- Technical training in fields such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity for millions of youth.
- Development of one of the world’s largest freelancing communities, focusing on equipping young people with IT skills.
The Prime Minister also mentioned the Youth Business and Agriculture Loan Scheme, which has provided billions in loans to empower young entrepreneurs, along with initiatives like Startup Pakistan and the National Innovation Awards to cultivate a thriving startup ecosystem.
PM Shehbaz announced that Pakistan’s cabinet has approved the implementation of a Preferential Trade Agreement with D-8 member countries, aiming to enhance trade and economic ties within the bloc.
“The D-8 Summit offers a pathway to shared prosperity, where investments in youth and SMEs can lay the foundation for a sustainable and inclusive future,” the Prime Minister concluded.
