The federal government has initiated high-level coordination with provincial administrations to streamline the implementation of the Country Partnership Framework, a strategic ten-year development roadmap for Pakistan. During a recent consultative session, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema and World Bank Country Director Bolormaa Amgaabazar conducted a comprehensive review of the priorities and progress under this framework. Spanning from fiscal year 2026 to 2035, the CPF is supported by a massive financial commitment of up to 20 billion dollars, aimed at fueling long-term development projects and essential institutional reforms across the country.
A central theme of the discussions was the importance of federal-provincial alignment to ensure that the objectives of the CPF are met with consistency. Minister Ahad Cheema emphasized that the success of this decade-long roadmap depends on the seamless cooperation of all administrative levels. The dialogue covered a wide spectrum of social sector programs, with a particular focus on addressing the critical issue of child stunting. To combat this, the framework prioritizes improved access to clean water, enhanced sanitation facilities, and modernized healthcare services to ensure proper nutrition for the most vulnerable segments of the population.
Climate resilience also occupied a prominent place on the agenda, as both the government and the World Bank emphasized the urgent need to mitigate flood risks and other environmental challenges. Given Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change, the CPF integrates food and nutrition security within a broader water-agriculture nexus. The meeting also identified the transition to cleaner energy systems and the improvement of urban air quality as high-priority areas. These environmental initiatives are designed to span both federal and provincial jurisdictions, reflecting a unified commitment to sustainable ecological management.
Beyond social and environmental goals, the partnership aims to stimulate inclusive and productive private sector investment. By leveraging the expertise of the International Finance Corporation, the government intends to boost national exports and strengthen external balances to support overall economic stability. Minister Cheema noted that fostering a business-friendly environment is essential for unlocking higher productivity and sustainable growth. The World Bank Group’s continued engagement is viewed as a cornerstone of this effort, providing the necessary strategic financing and technical assistance to move Pakistan toward its long-term development targets.
Bolormaa Amgaabazar reaffirmed the World Bank’s resolve to stay engaged with Pakistan throughout this ambitious ten-year journey. She expressed confidence in the country’s potential to achieve higher growth through disciplined policy continuity and the effective implementation of reforms. The Minister expressed his appreciation for the international institution’s support, noting that the government remains fully committed to the CPF’s targets. This collaborative framework is expected to serve as a catalyst for a more resilient and inclusive economic future, ensuring that the benefits of development reach every province and community in Pakistan.
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