Canada working in partnership with stakeholders to address unique challenges of climate change, rights recognition: HC Scanlon
A high-level strategic dialogue on “Strengthening Indigenous Communities: Empowerment through Climate Action, Inclusion, and Gender Parity” was held here Monday to support socio-economic inclusion and empowerment of local communities and marginalised groups in Pakistan.
Co-hosted by the High Commission of Canada and Serena Hotels, the event brought together prominent speakers, including Canadian High Commissioner Leslie Scanlon CEO of Serena Hotels Boolani, Punjab’s Minister for Minorities Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, and key leaders from civil society organizations.
Canada, at home and around the world, is working to advance reconciliation and promote engagement with Indigenous Peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership said the Canadian HC. It involves listening to, learning from, and working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada, as well as with local communities around the world to address the unique challenges that these communities face.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Canadian High Commissioner Scanlon remarked, “On this day of Canada’s National Truth and Reconciliation, the dialogue was an opportunity for us to amplify the voices of Indigenous and marginalized communities, as well as leaders, here in Pakistan.
Canada is built on the ancestral lands of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, and as we continue our reconciliation journey we are committed to applying a reconciliation lens across our diplomacy and global advocacy efforts. Whether it’s promoting socio-economic inclusion, empowering youth, women, and girls in all their diversity, or supporting climate resilience for those on the frontlines of the climate crisis, we are committed to working with Pakistan to help build a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future.
Today’s dialogue, with the participation of Pakistani leaders who are working to support local communities, highlighted the importance of collective policies, actions, and partnerships to support local communities’ unique needs.”
Speaking at the event, Mr. Aziz Boolani, CEO of Serena Hotels, emphasized, “At Serena Hotels, we believe that sustainability is not just an agenda, but a responsibility. By supporting indigenous communities, we can amplify their voices and experiences in shaping policies and solutions for climate resilience. Today’s dialogue underlines our commitment to advancing inclusive growth and ensuring that the impacts of climate change are addressed with the unique needs of these communities in mind.”
Serena Hotels, through its Public Diplomacy initiative, has long been committed to fostering meaningful dialogues on pressing global issues, with a particular focus on climate action, social inclusion, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. This event was reflective of Serena’s dedication to addressing the profound impact of climate change on indigenous communities, who are often on the frontlines of environmental challenges.
