Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives agreed that the provinces did not transfer the power to the districts which has not brought the desired objectives of devolution of power. He was addressing to a large gather on the last day of International conference on “Sustainability and Resilient Pakistan in a Changing Global Order” organized by the Applied Economics Research Center, University of Karachi
He appreciated AERC on its efforts in the field of economic and social research which provide guidelines to the policy makers of the governments. Earlier, he threw light on the URAAN Pakistan initiative which focuses on 5-Es., particular emphasis on the productive use of our youth. Government is highly focusing on technological and digital skill enhancement of the young Pakistani and spending generous amount for the purpose. Without spending on our social sector Pakistan cannot achieve the goal of one trillion-economy. Among 5 Es, export is the main determinant of achieving this objective. He further discussed the role of Blue economy and Creative industry, which are the pillars of URAAN Pakistan initiative. However, the accomplishment of this objective depends on the peace and political stability and Pakistan is now on a decisive point to ensure political stability where every citizen has to contribute for the stability in the country.
The Vice Chancellor University of Karachi Prof. Dr. Khalid M. Iraqi thanked the Prof. Ahsan Iqbal and added that Peace and security is the main determinant of economic progress and the continuity of the economic policies. When we talk about the country it implies all 4 federating units and its people, so the economic policies needs to people oriented and not to serve the elite class.
In the concluding session, panel chaired by the Dr Asghar Ali and Mozam Ali Khan, which discussed the blue-economy and environment, Commander (Rtd.) Idrees stressed the need of focusing on exploiting the potential of the blue economy. He informed that Pakistan has immense, largely untapped blue economy potential, estimated at over US$ 100 billion, with 95% of its trade relying on sea routes. Exploiting 290,000 sq. km of Exclusive Economic Zone, including fisheries, coastal tourism have $4 potential, and Gwadar Port development, can drive significant growth. Currently, this sector contributes only 0.4-0.5% to GDP.
Dr. Nooreen Mujahid thanked the Chief Guest for sparing his precious time and hope for a productive collaboration of AERC for URAAN Pakistan initiative. She also thanked the Vice Chancellor for his assistance and guidance for the successful organization of the conference.
In her concluding remarks, the Director specially thanked to the sponsor companies and participants for playing their important in successful organization of the conference.