WB assures support to Pakistan for achieving development objectives
Rural development vital to sustainable socioeconomic development: Omar
ISLAMABAD (APP) - The World Bank on Tuesday assured to continuous support to the Government of Pakistan (GoP) in achieving the priority development objectives.
Minister for Economic Affairs, Omar Ayub Khan, held a consultative meeting with Country Director, World Bank in the Ministry of Economic Affairs Mr. Najy Benhassine, said a press release issued by Ministry of Economic Affairs (EAD) here.
The meeting was aimed to discuss ongoing projects and development priorities of Government of Pakistan for the next years.
Both the sides also emphasized on the need of improved rural infrastructure including farm to market roads.
In order to improve the rural economy, it was discussed to improve agriculture productivity through provision of improved seeds and efficient water management system.
It was highlighted that cold storages are critical to manage short-term demand-supply gaps and price stability.
While Minister for Economic Affairs Omar Ayub Khan, emphases on agriculture and rural transformation through improved connectivity.
The Minister for Economic Affairs highlighted that lack of economic opportunities and limited connectivity of rural area with urban centers has caused the income gap between urban and rural residents.
He said that rural development is vital to sustainable socioeconomic development and environmental viability of a country.
Furthermore, farmer and non-farmer residents of rural areas can enhance their income through valuate addition in agricultural products, he said.
Omer said the improved connectivity between the rural and urban areas will not only facilitate the travelers but also unleash the development potential the remote areas.
A reliable and efficient farm to market road network helps to improve supply chain of agricultural products to urban consumers and agro-based industries, he said.
Country Director, World Bank Mr. Najy Benhassine appreciated the government ongoing reforms and development initiatives.
He also emphasized on the timely completion of the ongoing reforms and development projects.
