LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing health and education through substantial investments in these vital sectors.
She highlighted the significance of sustained collaboration with the World Bank to promote financial stability and establish effective, long-term economic models. Her statements were made during a meeting with World Bank President Ajay Banga, who visited the province accompanied by his delegation for strategic discussions.
The dialogue centered on deepening cooperation across critical domains such as health, education, the ‘Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar’ housing program, the ‘Suthra Punjab’ clean initiatives, and various climate-related projects. Both sides reviewed their longstanding partnership and assessed the progress of ongoing and potential future initiatives.
Ajay Banga lauded the welfare-oriented vision of the chief minister, praising Punjab’s commendable advancements in sectors like tourism, education, health, and skills development. A comprehensive evaluation of the World Bank-supported projects in Punjab was undertaken, with the delegation reaffirming their dedication to continued investment in areas such as climate action, digital governance, and inclusive growth.
The chief minister expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s partnership and highlighted the ongoing development of the “Connected Punjab” initiative. This program aims to enhance IT infrastructure across the province while contributing to economic progress.
She also underlined her government’s achievements in digitization, noting significant improvements in areas such as digital payments, governance frameworks, and modernized agricultural practices. These measures are designed to drive greater efficiency, ensure transparency, and support holistic provincial development.
On governance reforms, she spotlighted innovative projects like the IT City initiative, international IT certification programs, and e-procurement systems, which collectively aim to overhaul administrative operations. Additionally, irrigation systems across Punjab have been modernized with substantial support from the World Bank.
Maryam Nawaz reiterated her administration’s commitment to social welfare by emphasizing affordable housing solutions through the ‘Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar’ program. She also referred to social uplift initiatives like the ‘Nighaban Package’ and ‘Himmat Card,’ which are designed to improve living standards for underprivileged communities.
