———- The Finance Minister also discusses Pakistan’s 10-year partnership programme with the World Bank
———- Says govt working to battle poverty and climate woes
———- Highlights ongoing efforts at Davos forum
By Anzal Amin
ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasised Pakistan’s commitment to sustainable develop-ment during a high-level discussion at the World Economic Forum (WEF) on global debt challenges faced by developing economies.
Aurangzeb highlighted efforts to reduce government expenditures and debt servicing, noting the debt-to-GDP ratio had dropped from 78% to 67%. “Pakistan aims to address rising population, poverty, and environmental issues while pursuing sustainable economic growth,” he said.
The minister discussed Pakistan’s 10-year partnership programme with the World Bank and shared plans to promote business-to-business engagement under the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
“Chinese companies will be encouraged to relocate production units to Pakistan, potentially making it a hub for exports,” he added. On the sidelines of the WEF meeting, Aurangzeb met with Anita Zaidi, President of Gender Equality at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Discussions focused on collaborative efforts to improve nutrition, health, and polio eradication in Paki-stan. The minister reiterated the government’s dedication to advancing these initiatives through a strengthened partnership with the foundation.
