February 20, 2025 (MLN) – Pakistan is setting ambitious goals for its economic future, with the government emphasizing its commitment to driving long-term growth and development. Ahsan Iqbal, the Minister for Planning and Development, has expressed confidence that Pakistan will become one of the world’s leading economies by 2035, laying out a strategic path for achieving this vision.
In a recent speech at an event in Islamabad, Iqbal outlined the government’s plans to propel the nation into the ranks of global economic leaders. He noted that while challenges lie ahead, the country has the potential to meet these targets with the right policy framework and governance. According to the Minister, Pakistan’s goal of becoming an economic powerhouse by 2035 is not only achievable but also essential for the nation’s long-term prosperity.
Iqbal stressed the importance of peace, stability, and continuity in policy as foundational elements for realizing this ambitious vision. “Achieving our goal requires a stable and conducive environment, where policies can be sustained over time. The government is committed to maintaining consistency in its approach, and this will be key to long-term economic growth,” he said. He also pointed out that for Pakistan to truly flourish, it must leverage its strengths in strategic areas, including infrastructure development, industrialization, and innovation.
One of the core aspects of the plan includes significant collaboration between both federal and provincial governments to improve critical sectors such as health, education, and social welfare. At a subsequent event, Iqbal highlighted how such cooperation is essential for enhancing public services and creating a more equitable and prosperous society. He stressed that robust growth in these areas would provide a solid foundation for Pakistan’s economic development.
A major part of the government’s strategy revolves around ensuring sustainable socio-economic development through initiatives like the Uraan Pakistan program. This initiative, which Iqbal emphasized in his speech, aims to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, creating a more inclusive and resilient economy. By prioritizing sustainability, the government seeks to safeguard the future of Pakistan’s economy while also promoting social equity.
Iqbal reiterated that the government’s long-term commitment to national progress remains unwavering. He affirmed that the current administration is taking concrete steps to implement comprehensive policies that will strengthen Pakistan’s economic base and encourage foreign investment, both of which are vital for the country’s global positioning. “Our focus is not just on short-term gains but on creating an economic system that is sustainable and globally competitive in the long run,” said Iqbal.
In addition to strategic planning, Iqbal emphasized the importance of human capital development. The government aims to invest in education and skills training to ensure that the workforce is equipped to meet the demands of an increasingly globalized and technology-driven economy. “A skilled workforce is a key driver of economic growth, and we are committed to ensuring that Pakistanis are well-prepared for the future,” Iqbal noted.
As part of the broader vision, the government is also aiming to foster innovation across key industries and sectors, with an emphasis on digital transformation and technological advancement. With the rise of the digital economy, Pakistan is aiming to capitalize on the opportunities that technology offers to boost productivity, improve efficiency, and create new economic opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs alike.
In conclusion, Ahsan Iqbal’s statements reflect a determined drive to position Pakistan as a leading global economy by 2035. By focusing on critical areas such as political stability, sustainable development, human capital, and innovation, Pakistan is setting the stage for a bright economic future. The government’s firm commitment to long-term progress, alongside its efforts to implement inclusive policies and programs, is expected to drive the nation forward on its path to becoming an economic leader on the global stage.