PM lauds ADB’s longstanding partnership with Pakistan

Abdullah Jan

Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday appreciated Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) longstanding partnership with Pakistan and said that ADB had always been a reliable partner in the country’s journey towards development and prosperity.

He noted that it was highly encouraging that ADB was interested in partnering on several major projects in Pakistan, which could prove as revolutionary for the country’s economic progress.

President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Masato Kanda, along with his delegation, met the prime minister at the PM’s House, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.

The prime minister further said that Pakistan and ADB could further their cooperation in the fields of railways, public transport, and minerals sectors that would significantly benefit Pakistan’s economy.

He also briefed the ADB delegation on the reforms initiated by the incumbent government which included increasing tax revenues, reforms in the energy sector, improving fiscal stability, measures against the devastating effects of climate change, reduction in the untargeted subsidies, and expansion of social security.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Power Division Sardar Awais Ahmad Leghari, Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani and other relevant senior officials.

The ADB president acknowledged Pakistan’s longstanding association with the institution as a founding member.

He appreciated the comprehensive reforms undertaken by the government of Pakistan and reaffirmed Bank’s continued support for the country.

He reiterated ADB’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Pakistan in infrastructure development, climate change, and institutional reforms.