Islamabad: Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, has called on the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to assist in developing database management systems for the country’s courts and police stations. This appeal was made during a meeting with an ADB delegation led by Senior Director Tariq Niazi, where the Minister emphasized the need for technological integration to enhance transparency and efficiency in judicial and law enforcement operations.
According to Ministry of Planning Development and Special Initiatives, the proposed judicial information system would cover 2,500 courts in Pakistan, providing detailed profiles of judges and tracking case statuses to ensure operational transparency. Additionally, a comprehensive police information system would be established to integrate data from 1,500 police stations nationwide, aiming to streamline jurisdictional operations and modernize administrative processes.
Senior Director Tariq Niazi also briefed the Minister on ADB’s ongoing work in the region, highlighting its contributions to public sector management and governance in Pakistan. The Bank has been instrumental in providing technical and financial aid during various crises, including the pandemic and economic challenges.
The meeting included discussions on increasing concessional financing for Pakistan, especially given the economic impact of climate change. The Minister stressed the necessity of separating climate financing from regular funding to better support vulnerable nations. Additionally, export expansion was identified as a key challenge, with the Minister advocating for ADB’s support in developing programs to boost export growth, including leveraging the potential of Pakistan’s flower industry.
The ADB delegation expressed readiness to assist in enhancing Pakistan’s export capacity and aligned with the Minister’s vision for economic diversification. This meeting highlights the ongoing collaboration between the Ministry and ADB in pursuing technological and economic reforms for sustainable development in Pakistan.