ISLAMABAD: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide US$600 million for ‘Ehsaas Programme’ under Integrated Social Protection Development Program.
The announcement was made as ADB Country Director MrYong Ye call on Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Omar Ayub Khan. During the meeting, the federal minister congratulated Mr Yong Ye on assuming charge as Country Director in Pakistan.
The federal minister appreciated the ADB Management and Board of Directors for their continued technical and financial support to the Government of Pakistan. He also acknowledged the ADB’s timely support for procurement of COVID-19 vaccine.
The minister reiterated that the government is committed to providing maximum vaccination coverage to the eligible population. Both sides also discussed mobilising additional financial resources for mass vaccination drive in the country.
The minister highlighted the importance of improved road network and digital connectivity which are fundamental for service delivery and economic growth through enhanced mobility of individuals, farm to market access, trade of goods and services, exchange of information and e-commerce.
He also emphasised on capacity building of project executing agencies and staff for efficient project implementation and stressed on using digital tools and satellites for effective project monitoring across the country.
ADB director highlighted that ADB has committed to providing $6.3 billion under Country Operation Business Plan (2021-2023) to Pakistan. At present, 32 projects worth $6.4 billion are under implementation in energy, road & transport, agriculture and irrigation, urban services, education, health and social protection.
He further informed that the Bank has recently negotiated a new program with the Government of Pakistan’s for providing US$ 600 million for Integrated Social Protection Development.
This program will support the government of Pakistan’s efforts to implement high priorities from its Ehsaas Program (social protection and poverty reduction) in a coordinated, cohesive and systematic manner.
Under this program, institutional capacity for social protection and climate resilience will also be strengthened. Furthermore, access to primary and secondary education, health services and nutrition supplies will be enhanced for women (especially mothers), adolescents, and children of poor families. He also reiterated ADB’s commitment to continue its technical and financial support to the Government of Pakistan for priority areas.
The Minister for Economic Affairs also chaired a high-level meeting to review the financing needs for the procurement of COVID-19 vaccine. He directed to ensure uninterrupted supply of vaccines and identify any financing gaps.
