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Islamabad, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, met with Syed Ali Mahmood, Country Lead for Pakistan at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), and Waqas ul Hassan, CEO of Karandaaz, to discuss innovative solutions to address key developmental challenges in Pakistan. The meeting focused on exploring public-private partnerships to foster sustainable development and promote financial inclusion.
According to Press Information Department, Minister Aurangzeb acknowledged the contributions of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Karandaaz in supporting Pakistan’s development landscape, particularly in increasing financial inclusion. He emphasized the importance of these partnerships in driving inclusive growth and creating opportunities for underserved communities.
Syed Ali Mahmood shared insights into the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s ongoing initiatives in Pakistan, with a focus on financial inclusion and support for the Government’s digitalization efforts. He reiterated BMGF’s commitment to aiding Pakistan’s development goals and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
Waqas ul Hassan outlined Karandaaz’s role in promoting financial inclusion and entrepreneurship in Pakistan. He highlighted the Foundation’s work in fostering innovation and expanding access to financial services, contributing to economic empowerment and poverty alleviation.
Discussions centered on leveraging technology and data-driven solutions to address developmental challenges. Minister Aurangzeb reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. He stressed the importance of cooperation and collaboration in achieving sustainable development.
During the meeting, sustainable growth and management of Raast, connectivity of Raast with Buna, and digitalization of the tax system were identified as key areas for collaboration. The importance of revitalizing the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) was also emphasized, focusing on expanding access to formal financial services, increasing branchless banking, and promoting financial literacy and consumer protection.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from all parties to work together towards a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem in Pakistan, aiming to support the country’s economic reform agenda and foster long-term development.