President Asif Ali Zardari called for global efforts to end poverty and ensure equal rights for all during his address at the World Summit for Social Development in Doha on Tuesday. He emphasized that social integration must be rooted in equality, solidarity, and respect for human rights. Zardari urged the world community to build inclusive and responsive global institutions that serve the needs of the Global South.
The president reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working with development partners and multilateral organizations to promote social protection and green employment initiatives. He said the country’s vision for inclusive growth aligns with the Doha Declaration, focusing on sustainable progress and equal opportunities. The summit, held under the United Nations General Assembly, brought together world leaders and policymakers to discuss strategies for social development and job creation.
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Highlighting Pakistan’s achievements, Zardari praised the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) for empowering more than nine million families through financial aid, healthcare, and education. He said the program has become a global model for poverty reduction. He also mentioned the National Internship Program as part of Pakistan’s drive to empower the youth and raise literacy to 90 percent. Zardari reiterated that no child should remain out of school in Pakistan’s pursuit of sustainable development goals.
Addressing climate challenges, Zardari said Pakistan is investing in resilient and green growth to ensure long-term sustainability. He called for international cooperation to address the global impacts of climate change. The president also urged the resolution of the Palestinian and Kashmir disputes in line with UN Security Council resolutions, stressing that peace and justice must prevail for true social progress.
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Zardari condemned India’s recent violations of the Indus Waters Treaty, warning against the weaponization of water. He said such actions threaten regional peace and stability. The tensions between Pakistan and India have escalated sharply since the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which led to a series of military and diplomatic standoffs. Despite the challenges, Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to uphold peace, equality, and human dignity through international cooperation.