UN assistant secretary general calls on NA speaker

F.P. Report

ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser Tuesday said robust regional cooperation is key to tackle endemic poverty and foster inclusive growth within the entire region.

He was speaking to Assistant Secretary General United Nations Hao Liang Xu and Resident Representative of UNDP Pakistan Ignacio Artaza, who called on him here at Parliament House, a press release said.

Underlining the need for joint action, he remarked that Pakistan is committed to promote policy coherence on shared regional concerns and pressing development challenges.

Convener Parliamentary Force on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Riaz Fatyana was also present on the occasion.

Asad Qaiser remarked that regional challenges cannot be addressed in isolation rather a concerted action under the umbrella of United Nations will prove highly effective.

He also appreciated the United Nation for its unwavering support to the government of Pakistan for its social sector development initiatives.

The speaker also acknowledged the contributions of UNDP in rendering effective assistance to Parliament in various aspects.

He said Pakistanis an agricultural country and its economy depends on agriculture. Increase in agricultural commodity production and the welfare of farmers include the primary priorities of the present government, he added.

While apprising the formation of Special Committee on Agriculture in National Assembly, the speaker said the UN and its sub-institutions play their role in the development of agriculture in Pakistan.

Referring to Pakistan’s commitment to SDGs, the speaker informed that Pakistan has constituted a Parliamentary Task Force and a dedicated secretariat for SDGs on the premises of the National Assembly Secretariat to fast-track progress on SDGs.

Assistant Secretary General United Nations Hao Liang Xu appreciated Pakistan’s parliamentary commitment to fast track progress on SDGs and highlighted that UN will continue to assist Pakistan in promoting regional development agenda.

He said undertaking social development and eradication of poverty through sustainable practices are defining parameters for good governance.