ISLAMABAD: The World Bank has assured continuous support to the Government of Pakistan in achieving the priority development objectives.
Minister for Economic Affairs Omar Ayub Khan held a consultative meeting with Country Director World Bank Najy Benhassine and discussed ongoing projects and development priorities for the next years. Both sides also emphasized on the need for improved rural infrastructure including farm-to-market roads.
In order to improve the rural economy, it was discussed to improve agriculture productivity through the provision of improved seeds and an efficient water management system. It was highlighted that cold storages are critical to managing short-term demand-supply gaps and price stability.
Minister for Economic Affairs Omar Ayub Khan emphasised on agriculture and rural transformation through improved connectivity. He highlighted that lack of economic opportunities and limited connectivity of rural areas with urban centres has caused the income gap between urban and rural residents.
He said that rural development is vital to sustainable socio-economic development and environmental viability of a country. Furthermore, farmer and non-farmer residents of rural areas can enhance their income through valuate addition in agricultural products, he said.
Omer Ayub said the improved connectivity between the rural and urban areas will not only facilitate the travelers but also unleash the development potential of remote areas. He said a reliable and efficient farm to market road network helps to improve supply chain of agricultural products to urban consumers and agro-based industries
World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine appreciated the government’s ongoing reforms and development initiatives. He also emphasised on the timely completion of the ongoing reforms and development projects.
