Islamabad, 27 November 2021 (TDI): The Australian High Commissioner, Dr. Geoffrey Shaw attended Pakistan’s first Women in Law Awards & Symposium. The theme of the symposium was diversity and inclusion.

The initiative was organized by the Women in Law Initiative Pakistan and supported by the Australian High Commission Pakistan. It aims to support the economic empowerment of women as well as unhindered access to justice by increasing their representation in the legal field.

Awards were granted to women belonging to the legal profession in Pakistan to acknowledge their services. The Parliamentary Secretary, Barrister Maleeka Bokhari, whilst addressing the event stated that it’s a great success that finally achievements of women in the law profession are being celebrated.

The event featured a symposium on inclusion as well as panel discussions. Women in Law initiative aims to bring together the female lawyers of Pakistan as well as assure equality in the profession.

Australia has a great interest in Pakistan because of its strategic position in South Asia and economic potential. It is committed to supporting Pakistan to build economic prosperity, promote equitable development.

In addition to that, Australia also supports ventures related to women empowerment, health, and education in Pakistan. One such example is the Cricket Tournament that the Australian High Commission jointly organized with the Kinnaird College, Lahore.

Australia’s support to Pakistan stems from three primary themes; stability, governance, and women’s empowerment. Growth in these sectors is crucial to Pakistan’s capacity to realize its economic and development goals.

Gender equality is the foremost priority for Australia. As per its policies, Australia focuses on the economic empowerment of women through involvement in trade and market development. The Australian High Commission in Pakistan is actively implementing this policy by helping women participate in the country’s economy.

Furthermore, Australia has no tolerance towards gender-based violence as it abuses the rights of women and, threatens the social fabric and economic productivity of a country.