World Bank president reaches Islamabad, visits Tarbela Dam

David Malpass lauds government for improving the country’s water resources sector

World Bank President David Malpass, who is on a two-day trip to Pakistan, visited Tarbela Dam on Thursday, according to Radio Pakistan.

Minister for Water Resources Faisal Vawda was accompanying WB’s top official.



The WB president did a detailed inspection of Tarbela Dam, Tarbela Hydel Power Station and the powerhouse of Tarbela-4 Extension Hydropower project.

Malpass lauded the government for improving the country’s water resources sector, including removal of hiccups in completion of Dasu Hydropower project and construction of dams.

Speaking on the occasion, Vawda said, “Steps are being taken under a comprehensive strategy to improve water resources in the country.”

Thanking the WB president for extending cooperation in water resources projects, the minister expressed confidence that the water resources sector and hydropower will further grow with the cooperation of the international financial institution.

During his stay in Pakistan, Malpass will hold talks with the Pakistani leadership, discussing means to strengthen the economy of the country.

The visit carries special significance in the backdrop of Pakistan's recent inclusion among top-20 global reformers on Ease of Doing Business Index.



Pakistan had jumped up 28 places on the WB's Ease of Doing Business Index and secured a place among the top 10 countries with the most improved business climate.