Islamabad: Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank have signed a $350 million loan agreement aimed at advancing women’s financial inclusion through the “Women Inclusive Finance Sector Development Program (Subprogram-II).”

The agreement was signed by Additional Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division Sabina Qureshi and Head Project Administration Unit Dinesh Raj Shiwakoti, with the State Bank of Pakistan signing the Project Agreement on Financial Intermediary Loan.

This program underscores the Government of Pakistan’s dedication to women’s economic empowerment. It aims to improve women’s access to financial services, expand their business opportunities, and create new employment prospects, contributing to inclusive and sustainable development in the country.

Subprogram II focuses on four key reform areas: establishing an enabling policy and regulatory environment for women’s financial inclusion, increasing financial access for women, strengthening women’s entrepreneurship capabilities, and promoting inclusive workplaces within the financial sector.

The agreement highlights the government’s commitment to integrating women into the national economy. The program is expected to equip women with financial resources, bolster their entrepreneurial activities, and generate employment opportunities.

This initiative is seen as a step towards strengthening women’s economic empowerment and fostering a more inclusive and equitable future.