Islamabad, In a significant meeting held on Thursday, United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Mohamed Yahya, met with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, to discuss the ongoing cooperation between Pakistan and the United Nations, particularly in the realm of sustainable development.

According to Press Information Department, Minister Iqbal highlighted the strong ties between Pakistan and the UN, noting the UN’s support during critical periods such as the 2022 floods. The discussions also covered the recent advancements in Pakistan’s planning strategies, including the development of the 4RF framework designed to enhance national resilience against catastrophic events.

Minister Iqbal underscored the importance of the newly established Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Secretariat, set to become operational on July 1, 2024. He emphasized the need for engaging policymakers and media professionals to effectively reach the SDG targets and address vital issues related to these goals. The minister also pointed out the crucial role of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies in driving future progress and maintaining a competitive edge globally.

For his part, Mr. Yahya expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s robust support of UN initiatives and stressed the importance of the remaining six years to achieve the SDGs. He advocated for enhanced efforts in data collection, the adoption of new technologies, and significant emphasis on education and training to prepare for future challenges.

The meeting concluded with Mr. Yahya presenting a souvenir to Minister Iqbal, symbolizing the renewed and strengthened partnership between Pakistan and the United Nations, particularly in achieving the SDGs and fostering sustainable development.