ISLAMABAD: Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema has highlighted the importance of enhancing primary healthcare through digital solutions and increased private sector participation in collaboration with the World Bank.

According to Radio Pakistan, Cheema discussed these priorities during a meeting with World Bank Vice President Mamta Murthi in Islamabad. The discussions centered on the World Bank’s proposed interventions in health, education, and human development sectors, including a medium-term Health Compact. The compact aims to strengthen primary healthcare systems, improve maternal and child health outcomes, and enhance service delivery through a digitally enabled health sector.

Murthi also addressed the potential for a Skills Development Program aimed at improving technical and vocational training, enhancing workforce readiness, and providing better employment opportunities for Pakistan’s youth. Cheema welcomed these proposals and stressed the importance of aligning them with national development priorities.

The meeting reviewed ongoing cooperation between Pakistan and the World Bank and examined new initiatives focused on human capital development, skills enhancement, workforce readiness, and youth employment. There was also a discussion on collaboration avenues among the government, the World Bank Group, and the private sector to support Pakistan’s human capital objectives.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing cooperation and collaboration in advancing Pakistan’s human capital and economic development goals.