Canada Commits to Partnering with Pakistan for a Sustainable, Equitable Future: Envoy

Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Leslie Scanlon, reaffirmed Ottawa’s commitment to collaborating with Islamabad in building a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future. Speaking at the ‘Strategic Dialogue on Strengthening Indigenous Communities: Empowerment through Climate Action, Inclusion, and Gender Parity,’ Scanlon emphasized Canada’s dedication to promoting socioeconomic inclusion, empowering youth, women, and girls, and supporting climate resilience for those most affected by the climate crisis.

The event, co-hosted by the Canadian High Commission and Serena Hotels, brought together government officials and civil society leaders working towards socioeconomic inclusion and the empowerment of marginalized communities in Pakistan. Scanlon highlighted the importance of collective policies and partnerships in addressing the unique needs of these local communities.

She noted Canada’s efforts to advance reconciliation at home and globally, fostering engagement with Indigenous Peoples through respect, cooperation, and partnership. “This means listening to, learning from, and collaborating with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada, as well as communities worldwide, to address their specific challenges,” she said.

Held on Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the event offered a platform to amplify the voices of Indigenous and marginalized communities in Pakistan. Scanlon reiterated Canada’s commitment to applying a reconciliation lens in its diplomacy and global advocacy.

Aziz Boolani, Chairman of the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme and CEO of Serena Hotels, emphasized the importance of inclusive growth and addressing climate change with local communities’ needs in mind. He noted that Serena Hotels has long championed dialogues on critical issues, particularly climate action and social inclusion, through its Public Diplomacy initiative.