President Asif Ali Zardari have urged all stakeholders, government institutions, parliamentarians, academia, civil society organisations, development partners, religious leaders, the media and communities to work together in promoting the health, wellbeing and empowerment of the masses.
In his message on the World Population Day, observed globally under the theme “Realising the Hopes and Aspirations of Young People – Today and for the Future,” the president highlighted that by placing women, children and young people at the centre of the national development efforts, the country could create a future that is equitable, inclusive and sustainable.
President Zardari joined the international community in reflecting on evolving population trends and reaffirming the nation’s collective commitment to building a society where every citizen can live with dignity, health and opportunity.
“Pakistan is blessed with a young and vibrant population. More than sixty-five per cent of our citizens are under the age of thirty, presenting a unique opportunity for national progress. If provided with quality education, healthcare, skills and employment opportunities, our youth can become a powerful demographic dividend, driving economic growth, innovation and social development. Investing in young people today is an investment in Pakistan’s future,” he said.
He underscored that the nation must also recognise the critical importance of improving the health and wellbeing of women and children. “Maternal health, child survival, nutrition, education and access to essential healthcare services remain fundamental pillars of sustainable development,” he said, adding that a society could not prosper when mothers face preventable risks during pregnancy and childbirth, when children suffer from malnutrition or when girls were denied opportunities to learn and thrive.
The president also recalled the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who championed womens’ rights, dignity and empowerment. She emphasised the vital role of womens’ empowerment, education and reproductive health in national development, and her legacy continues to inspire these efforts today, he said.
The president added that population and development are deeply interconnected as progress in education, healthcare, gender equality, poverty reduction and economic opportunity strengthens families and communities, contributing to a more prosperous and resilient society.
“Ensuring that every woman has access to quality healthcare and that every child receives the care, nutrition and education necessary to reach their full potential is both a moral responsibility and a national imperative. Let us renew our commitment to building a Pakistan where every person can realise their hopes and aspirations. Together, we can transform our demographic strengths into lasting national prosperity and human development,” the president concluded.