Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice-President Mr. Wencai Zhang affirmed ADB’s support for the Government of Pakistan’s new development and reform agenda during his 2-day visit to the country from 4 to 5 October.
Mr. Zhang met with Finance Minister Mr. Asad Umar, Planning and Development Minister Mr. Khusro Bakhtiar, Education Minister Mr. Shafqat Mehmood, Adviser to Prime Minister on Institutional Reforms Dr. Ishrat Hussain, as well as other government officials and development partners.
In his meetings, Mr. Zhang congratulated the new administration on assuming office and noted the government’s “100-day agenda” that prioritizes revitalizing economic growth, transforming governance, and revolutionizing social services.
“ADB and Pakistan have a more than 50-year history of strong partnership,” said Mr. Zhang. “We are committed to deepening our cooperation with the new government and supporting its development agenda to bring prosperity to the people of Pakistan.”
Under the current country partnership strategy (CPS), 2015–2019, and the country operations business plan, 2018–2020, ADB is focused on ensuring high, sustained, and inclusive growth for Pakistan. ADB plans to significantly increase the country’s sovereign operations to $7.1 billion over 3 years. Along with its continued focus on energy, infrastructure development, and institutional reforms, ADB is also re-engaging in education and health, and further strengthening social safety net through income support program.
“ADB will help Pakistan upgrade its transport networks and trade facilitation with neighboring countries and transform the physical connectivity gains into economic gains through the promotion and development of economic corridors and special economic zones,” Mr. Zhang said.
ADB has committed over $32 billion in project and technical assistance to Pakistan as of 30 September 2018.
Original source: ADB
Published on 5 October 2018
