ISLAMABAD: As Pakistan charts a path toward sustainable development, the Country Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Emma Fan, met with Minister Ahsan Iqbal to discuss vital ongoing and upcoming projects designed to bolster the nation’s growth.
In their meeting on Monday, the Minister emphasized that the recently finalized five-year development plan aligns with the Prime Minister’s broader agenda. He highlighted the government’s strategic focus on key sectors such as information technology, agriculture, and social development, with the goal of promoting inclusive growth and uplifting marginalized communities.
The Minister also underscored the need to modernize infrastructure, particularly roads, to enhance connectivity both within the country and with regional partners, especially Central Asia. He expressed gratitude for ADB’s continued support, noting that improvements to road infrastructure, including the Taftan section, are essential for boosting trade and regional integration.
Furthermore, he called for increased investments in health and education, recognizing these sectors as critical to human development. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare and education to create a healthier, more educated workforce.
Addressing the challenges of water management in Pakistan, he highlighted the urgent need to enhance water storage capacity through major projects like the Bhasha Dam, which is vital for ensuring food security and sustainable agricultural growth.
