Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema has underscored the importance of strengthening primary healthcare through greater use of digital solutions to improve service delivery.

He was talking to World Bank Vice President Mamta Murthi, who called on him in Islamabad today.    

Highlighting the need of increased private sector participation, the Minister emphasized greater engagement by the International Finance Corporation to support healthcare systems and industry-oriented skills initiatives.

During the meeting, the World Bank Vice President briefed the Minister on the World Bank's proposed interventions in the health, education and human development sectors, including a medium-term Health Compact aimed at strengthening primary healthcare systems, improving maternal and child health outcomes, and enhancing service delivery through a digitally enabled health sector.

Mamta Murthi also discussed the possibility of a Skills Development Program focused on strengthening technical and vocational training, improving workforce readiness, and creating better employment opportunities for Pakistan's youth.

On his part, Ahad Cheema welcomed the World Bank's proposals and emphasized the need to align future interventions with national development priorities.

The meeting discussed progress under ongoing cooperation between Pakistan and the World Bank and launch of new development initiatives with a particular focus on human capital development, skills development, workforce readiness and employment generation for youth.

The meeting also explored avenues for greater collaboration among the government, the World Bank Group, and the private sector to support Pakistan's human capital objectives.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continue cooperation and collaboration in advancing Pakistan's human capital and economic development objectives.