Australian Ambassador for Women Dr Sharman Stone arrived in Pakistan on Sunday on a three-day visit to exchange views on gender equality and the rights of women. Ambassador Dr Sharman Stone said her country has made gender equality a key objective of foreign policy because they recognise the benefits that flow to entire communities from women’s full and equal participation. She said gender equality is not only a basic human right but also a fundamental basis for a peaceful, innovative, prosperous and inclusive world. The ambassador for women said she was excited to be in Pakistan and talking about such important issues with Pakistani friends at a time when both Australia and Pakistan were serving on the United Nations Human Rights Council, and flowing from Sustainable Development Goal #5. During her visit, Sharman Stone will meet with senior officials, including the human rights minister and the foreign secretary. Published in Daily Times, September 17th 2018.