Beijing: Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Prof Ahsan Iqbal, outlined a comprehensive strategy to boost global sustainable development efforts during his speech at the Second High-Level Conference of the Forum on Global Action for Shared Development. His four-pronged approach focuses on aligning national strategies with global goals, enhancing international collaborations, driving innovation, and fostering knowledge sharing.
According to Press Information Department, Minister Iqbal, while addressing a panel on sustainable development, emphasized the importance of integrating national development plans with global initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Global Development Initiative (GDI). He specifically pointed to Pakistan’s adoption of the Vision 2025 and the 5Es economic transformation plan, which aim to ensure economic, social, and environmental policies are synchronized with international standards. The Minister highlighted Pakistan’s efforts in renewable energy and the role of initiatives such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in bolstering sustainable growth through infrastructure improvements and energy projects.
Minister Iqbal also stressed the necessity of robust collaboration mechanisms, including public-private partnerships and international cooperation, particularly in innovations like artificial intelligence, to tackle global challenges effectively. He called for the reform of outdated global financial structures and emphasized the role of technological advancement in achieving sustainability goals. The Minister lauded China’s leadership in digital advancements and e-governance, citing these as models for fostering inclusivity and efficiency.
Additionally, Iqbal highlighted the critical role of knowledge sharing, urging the creation of platforms for dialogue and mutual learning to enhance global cooperation. He praised the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) for its role in facilitating international knowledge exchange, noting Pakistan’s gains from agricultural innovations shared by China and others.
Concluding his remarks, Minister Iqbal reaffirmed the commitment to a collaborative path towards sustainable development, echoing sentiments from President Xi Jinping about the importance of building an open, cooperative global economy.