Islamabad: Adviser to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, recently met with a delegation from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to explore potential collaborations in industrial development, renewable energy, and technological advancement.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting focused on Pakistan’s vision for an export-oriented industrial transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. Haroon Akhtar Khan emphasized the importance of sustainable industrialization and economic self-reliance, noting the role of modern technologies in achieving these goals. He stressed the necessity of utilizing Pakistan’s youth and resources effectively to foster economic progress and employment.

Pakistan’s newly formulated National Industrial Policy was highlighted as a strategic framework for industrial growth and productivity enhancement. The discussion also touched upon addressing trade deficits through export-led growth and import substitution. Haroon Akhtar Khan pointed out the considerable untapped potential in Pakistan’s industry and agriculture sectors and the importance of international cooperation in combating climate change and promoting sustainable energy solutions.

The Adviser noted the expanding opportunities in sectors like electric vehicles and solar energy, underlining the New Energy Vehicle Policy and a proposed Battery Energy Storage System Policy that aim to bolster local manufacturing. He highlighted UNIDO’s potential role in supporting Pakistan through technical cooperation and investment facilitation.

The UNIDO delegation acknowledged the potential for collaboration, particularly in renewable energy, and emphasized the importance of developing infrastructure and value chains to enhance productivity. The meeting concluded with a mutual interest in pursuing practical projects to support industrial development and technological advancement in Pakistan.