ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Sunday his government is focusing on improving the lives of citizens in rural areas through “targeted investments” in agriculture, health and education initiatives, as the international community marks World Rural Development Day today.
According to Pakistan’s latest population census, about 64 percent of the country’s population resides in rural areas. These areas often lack health, education, clean drinking water, sanitation, Internet and other facilities.
Governments, civil society, international organizations and academic institutions are invited on July 6 every year to conduct concrete policy dialogues and grassroots initiatives to elevate rural voices and galvanize development efforts for people in the most remote places worldwide.
“Our government continues to prioritize inclusive rural development as a key pillar of national progress,” Sharif said in a message released by his office.
“In line with the Sustainable Development Goals, we are focusing on transforming rural livelihoods through targeted investments in agriculture, education, health care, infrastructure, skills training, and environmental sustainability,” he added.
Sharif noted Pakistan’s villages and farmlands uphold the region’s centuries-old values of resilience, cooperation and tradition, hailing their “invaluable contributions” to various sectors.
“Significant strides have been made from expanding rural road networks and improving water and sanitation access, to empowering women and promoting climate-smart farming practices,” the Pakistani premier said.
He added that such efforts by the government reflect its resolve to ensure “no part of Pakistan is left behind.”
“On this day, we renew our pledge to uplift our rural citizenry; supporting them as equal partners in shaping a stronger, more equitable, and prosperous Pakistan,” Sharif concluded.
