Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul-haq-Kakar has abruptly canceled his scheduled three-day official visit to Kenya, which included attendance at the upcoming Africa Climate Summit hosted by President William Ruto.
Originally slated to commence on September 4, 2023, the state visit was expected to mark an important diplomatic exchange between Pakistan and Kenya, with the official announcement made by Pakistan's foreign office confirming the Prime Minister's participation in the Africa Climate Summit.
The high-profile event is set to take place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, bringing together a gathering of dignitaries, heads of states, and government representatives from around the world. President William Ruto is set to play host to these global leaders as they converge in Kenya to address pressing climate change issues facing Africa.
However, the sudden cancellation of Prime Minister Anwarul-haq-Kakar's visit has raised eyebrows, as reports suggest that the decision was influenced by the volatile situation unfolding in Pakistan. The country is currently grappling with concerns such as a soaring cost of living and skyrocketing electricity bills, leading to mass protests erupting in major cities across Pakistan.
Angry citizens have taken to the streets, blockading roads, staging protests outside power company offices, and even resorting to lighting bonfires as a form of expression of their discontent.
Kadar, who assumed office as the caretaker Prime Minister on August 14, 2023, had been looking forward to his first foreign trip. Apart from his participation in the Africa Climate Summit, the Pakistani delegation had also planned to engage in bilateral talks with President William Ruto aimed at enhancing trade and investment prospects between Pakistan and Kenya.
The Africa Climate Summit, scheduled to run from September 4 to September 6, 2023, has drawn significant attention as it seeks to address the unique climate change challenges facing the African continent. The event will bring together leaders from 24 African nations, alongside experts and representatives from across the globe, all committed to finding sustainable solutions to combat the pressing climate issues affecting the continent.