Pakistan, World Bank to bolster digital economy
and entrepreneurship
Pakistan and the World Bank have joined forces
to promote the digital economy and entrepreneurship for social upliftment.
In a meeting held at the World Bank Headquarters
in Washington DC, Ms. Shazia Marri, Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation
and Social Safety, and Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme
(BISP), engaged in discussions with Ms. Nicole Klingen, World Bank's Regional Head
of Social Protection & Acting Director and Practice Manager for Digital
Development in Europe and Central Asia in the Infrastructure Practice Group.
During the meeting, Ms. Marri provided an
overview of the social protection initiatives implemented by the Benazir Income
Support Programme in Pakistan and expressed gratitude for the continuous
support from the World Bank since its establishment in 2008-09, recognizing the
institution as a crucial development partner.
Emphasizing the efforts of the Pakistan Poverty
Alleviation Fund, Ms. Marri highlighted how financial support and technical
assistance have empowered talented youth from low-income backgrounds, creating
opportunities for economic growth and social upliftment. The initiative aims to
foster entrepreneurship and innovation, enabling individuals and communities to
enhance their livelihoods and contribute to the economic progress of
marginalized groups.
A significant agreement was reached during the
meeting to collaborate on promoting the digital economy sustainably. This
collaboration will focus on providing guidance, training, and financial
assistance to young entrepreneurs, with the ultimate goal of building a robust
digital ecosystem in Pakistan. Leveraging digital technologies such as digital payments
and e-commerce will enhance financial inclusion and expand access to
opportunities for marginalized communities in the country.
As a gesture of appreciation, Ms. Shazia Marri
presented a book titled "15 Years of Benazir Income Support Programme: 15 Years'
Journey from Inception to a Globally Recognized Social Protection Vehicle"
to Ms. Klingen, showcasing the program's remarkable achievements and
transformative impact over the years.
Furthermore, during the United Nations'
High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development Goals in New York, Ms.
Marri stressed the critical importance of access to safe drinking water and
sanitation, especially in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19
pandemic. She urged accelerated progress towards achieving SDG 6 targets,
demonstrating Pakistan's commitment to sustainable development and inclusive
growth.