Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that his government continues to go all out to make life more affordable for Pakistanis amid global economic challenges.
In his message on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, the prime minister said the world currently faces ever-increasing inflation and economic uncertainty. But despite all that the government of Pakistan is concentrating on implementing prudent policies so that the well-being of our citizens can be ensured, he said.
The message carried by the state-run news wire, quoted Shehbaz Sharif as saying that the country stands aligned with the international community in the fight against poverty. He said that on this day, Pakistan joins hands with the world in reasserting the pledge to create a society where no one is left behind, where opportunities are available to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
He said that eradication of poverty was more than a moral responsibility. It is essential for achieving sustainable development and ensuring lasting peace and prosperity for all citizens, he said. Talking about the decisions his government had to make since coming into power, he explained that the needs of the people were put at the center of every policy developed. This focus on the public’s well-being leads to various government programs that aim to reduce poverty and create a more stable economic future, he added.
The prime minister said that Pakistan has made considerable progress in this area through its social safety net programs. These initiatives, he said, have helped alleviate poverty by offering financial and technical assistance to those in need. He said the support was not just about short-term relief but focused on “creating pathways for long-term economic empowerment”, especially for women and children.
Through our targeted social efforts, we are empowering entire communities and equipping them with the necessary tools to build a brighter future, he said, adding that the government’s approach not only addresses immediate needs but also provides long-term opportunities for growth.
Shehbaz Sharif said that initiatives such as the Prime Minister’s Youth Business and Agriculture Loans have provided financial support to young entrepreneurs and farmers, which in turn has helped them start or expand their businesses. Moreover, initiatives like Digi-Skills – offering IT training to Pakistanis free of cost – are helping improve technical skills and create job opportunities in today’s digitized economy.
He also gave the example of Pakistan Education Endowment Fund, another cornerstone initiative, which has been providing financial assistance to students, hence enabling them to pursue higher education and contribute to the nation’s development. The prime minister said that Pakistan stands commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of 17 global objectives aimed at ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring peace and prosperity for all.
He expressed his confidence that Pakistan would continue to work closely with global partners to meet these goals by focusing on areas like inclusive economic growth, quality education, access to healthcare, and environmental sustainability.
Shehbaz also took pride in the government’s progress in empowering women and ensuring that they play an important role in the country’s economic and social development. Their role in shaping the future of Pakistan is critical, he said, adding that the government would keep on supporting their empowerment. He also appreciated all individuals and organizations, both within Pakistan and internationally, who are working tirelessly to eradicate poverty.
Towards the end of the message, the prime minister called upon all sections of society, including businesses, civil society, and individuals, to join the government in building a more prosperous, equitable, and inclusive future.
