London (TDI): Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Mohammad Faisal, held a meeting with Commonwealth Secretary General, Patricia Scotland, on Wednesday.
The two officials discussed new opportunities for strengthening Intra-Commonwealth trade, enhancing collaboration on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and exploring wider areas of cooperation between Pakistan and the Commonwealth.
The discussion also touched upon the role of emerging technologies, particularly AI, in shaping the future of governance, education and development among member states. Both sides agreed on the importance of knowledge-sharing and frameworks to responsibly develop and adopt AI tools that can benefit citizens.
A pleasure to meet H.E. Dr. Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal), High Commissioner of #Pakistan.
We discussed strengthening intra-Commonwealth trade, harnessing the potential of AI and deepening collaboration across the #Commonwealth, including on climate and youth. pic.twitter.com/EwikuSmN17
— Shirley Botchwey (@SGCommonwealth) July 9, 2025
What is the Commonwealth?
The commonwealth of nations , often simply called Commonwealth, is a voluntary association of 56 independent countries, most of which were formerly part of the British empire.
These nations span Africa, Asia, The Americas, Europe and Pacific, and together represent 2.5 Billion people roughly one third of the global population.
Founded to promote mutual cooperation, democracy and development, the Commonwealth provides a platform for member countries to collaborate on trade, sustainability, education, and governance. Regular high-level meetings help foster diplomatic and economic relationships among member states.
Why this matters for Pakistan
This meeting came at a time when Pakistan is looking to diversify its trade partners and harness digital technologies to strengthen its economy.
Deepening engagement within the Commonwealth can open new channels for exports, capacity building and innovation exchange.
By prioritizing collaboration in areas like AI and trade facilitation, Pakistan aims to position itself as a proactive member of South Asia. The meeting with Secretary-General Scotland is seen as a positive step towards that goal.
The Diplomatic Insight is a digital and print magazine focusing on diplomacy, defense, and development publishing since 2009.
