PM suggests access to technology for LDC sustainable growth

Shehbaz says Pakistan committed to Doha Plan of Action as a ‘step towards prosperity’

DOHA:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif proposed on Monday a system of international technology combined with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stressing the need for reforming the “unequal financial architecture” to address special needs of the Least-Developed Countries (LDCs).

Addressing the fifth United Nations Conference on the LDCs in the Qatari capital Doha, the prime minister called for providing an easy access to the LDCs to develop and bridge their digital divide in order to help them contribute to knowledge-based economy.

“The LDCs need major investments in health, education and social protection systems,” the prime minister told the conference, adding that vast resources were required to fully implement the Agenda 2030 and the SDGs.

Stressing that the needy nations required a system of social protection, the prime minister highlighted that many of the LDCs were already in or at risk of debt distress. “It is a matter of great concern that six LDCs have been classified as under extreme burden,” he pointed out.

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If left unchecked, he warned, economic distress and vaccine inequity would make recoveries longer and more painful than necessary, he continued. He urged the international community to join hands in tapping full potential of the LDCs and help them on their path to prosperity.

Shehbaz emphasised the need for exploring the opportunity to ensure sustainable development in the places where international assistance was needed the most. He assured that Pakistan was committed to safe and effective vaccines and allocation of resources for the LDCs.

Shehbaz lauded the Doha Programme of Action 2031, particularly its concrete measures, including the online universities, food stock system and investment support centre. He said Pakistan considered the plan an opportunity to accelerate sustainable prosperity in the LDCs.

He said that partnerships of the LDCs with the developed nations as well as private sector and civil society were significant for global prosperity. He congratulated the Amir of Qatar for hosting the conference.