United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator to Pakistan, Mohammad Yahya, recently highlighted the economic potential of South Punjab, emphasizing the UN’s commitment to bolstering infrastructure in the region. Speaking at a ceremony held at the Multan Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, Yahya underscored the significant role the UN plays in Pakistan, with 4,000 personnel actively working across the country.
Yahya’s address shed light on the region’s status as an agricultural hub, noting the Food and Agriculture Organization’s efforts to promote and enhance agricultural practices. He also emphasized the UN’s focus on skill development for the youth, aiming to equip them with the necessary tools to thrive in a competitive job market. The UN’s support extends to various sectors, including climate change mitigation, technology adoption, and agricultural advancements, all crucial for the sustainable development of South Punjab.
The UN official extended an invitation to the members of the Multan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) to visit Islamabad and collaborate on initiatives to attract investment to South Punjab. This call for partnership underscores the importance of public-private collaboration in driving economic growth and development.
Fernanda Thomaz, representative of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), detailed the organization’s efforts in alleviating poverty in ten districts of South Punjab. IFAD’s initiatives include providing livestock to 400,000 poor women and houses to 7,300 landless women, significantly impacting the lives of many families in the region. Additionally, 40 community food banks supported by IFAD cater to 30,000 households, ensuring food security for numerous families.
Bakhtawar Tanvir Sheikh, President of the Multan Chamber of Commerce, provided a comprehensive briefing on the challenges faced by South Punjab, including issues in agriculture, industry, climate change, girls’ education, and poverty. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by Chairman Senate Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani in spearheading development projects and urged the UN to intensify its focus on the region. Sheikh also highlighted several development projects proposed by the MCCI, aimed at addressing these challenges and fostering growth.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including Senator Rana Mehmood ul Hassan, Advisor to the Chairman Senate Misbah Khar, and Vice President MCCI Muhammad Azhar Baloch. Their presence underscored the significance of the discussions and the collective effort required to drive meaningful change in South Punjab.
The implications of these discussions are far-reaching. The emphasis on South Punjab’s agricultural potential and the UN’s support in various sectors signal a robust framework for economic development. The focus on skill development and education, particularly for girls, highlights the importance of human capital in driving long-term growth. Moreover, the collaborative approach advocated by Yahya and the detailed challenges outlined by Sheikh point to a comprehensive strategy that involves multiple stakeholders working together to unlock the region’s economic potential.