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Islamabad, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasized the critical role of public-private partnerships in promoting sustainable development and fostering inclusive growth during a meeting with Syed Ali Mahmood, Country Lead for Pakistan at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Waqas ul Hassan, CEO of Karandaaz, in Islamabad today.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the meeting focused on exploring collaborative initiatives and innovative solutions to tackle key developmental challenges in Pakistan. Syed Ali Mahmood discussed the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s ongoing work in Pakistan, particularly concerning financial inclusion. He commended the government’s efforts to digitize the economy and offered support from the foundation in this regard. Mahmood further expressed the foundation’s commitment to aiding Pakistan’s development goals and improving the lives of its citizens.
Waqas ul Hassan provided an overview of Karandaaz’s role in promoting financial inclusion and entrepreneurship in Pakistan. He highlighted the foundation’s focus on fostering innovation and extending access to financial services for underserved communities, thereby contributing to economic empowerment and poverty alleviation.
The Finance Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to creating a conducive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship, stressing the significance of partnership and collaboration to drive sustainable development. Discussions also covered initiatives related to the sustainable growth and management of Raast, the connectivity of Raast with Buna, and the digitalization of the tax system.
The meeting concluded with all parties recognizing the need for continued collaboration to support Pakistan’s economic and social development.
The government’s ambition to engage with global foundations and private sector leaders underscores its focus on public-private partnerships as a vital component of the country’s growth strategy.