Islamabad, June 14, 2023 (PPI-OT): Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervez Ashraf has said that deliberating on the policies, process and challenges for localization of SDGs in Pakistan is essential to find ways to implement SDGs in Pakistan. He also said that Pakistan has achieved substantive progress to define national strategies, approaches, development plans, and institutional reforms toward achieving the SDGs. He expressed these views while addressing the National Conference “Empowered Local Governments–Moving Forward to Accelerate the Implementation of Agenda 2030″ with the theme “accelerate the implementation of SDGs in Pakistan” organized by Lead for SDGs in Islamabad today.

While appreciating the initiatives undertaken by SDGs Task Force and its Convener Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, he said that localising SDGs pivotal for socio-economic development of country. He also reiterated to carry forward the agenda across all sectors. He also assured that parliamentarians at all levels including the National, Provincial and even the local Governments would continue to support the legislative process such to facilitate the processes for achieving the SDGs Agenda 2030.

The Speaker also said that Local governments play a crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by implementing and monitoring sustainable policies and practices at the grassroots level. He also said that local governments have the closest level of government to communities as they have a deep understanding of local needs, resources, and challenges, making them well-positioned to address the unique development issues within their jurisdictions. He stressed on the need to integrate the SDGs into their local development plans and strategies, local governments contribute to the global agenda while ensuring that progress is measurable and impactful at the community level.

Ms Romina Khursheed Alam Convener SDGs task force said that SDGs Secretariat is committed to localise SDGs. She also briefed the participants regarding achievements of SDGs Secretariat. She also stressed on the need to develop unity and consensus to achieve SDGs. Ms Shaza Fatima Federal Minister for Youth Affairs, also addressed the conference. She said that achieving the goals of SDGs without local governments support is impossible. She also stressed on the need to empower youth as they can play a proactive role to resolve challenges faced at local levels.

For more information, contact:

Secretary,

National Assembly of Pakistan

Automation Centre, National Assembly Secretariat,

Parliament House, Islamabad, Pakistan

Tel: +92-51-9221082-83

Fax: +92-51-9221106

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.na.gov.pk