Korea-aided projects in NMDs highlighted

Economic growth to mitigate terrorism’s adverse effects, asserts CM

PESHAWAR:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Caretaker Chief Minister, Justice (retd) Syed Arshad Hussain Shah, has asserted that the accelerated development of the newly merged districts stands atop the priority list for the provincial government.

In the face of myriad challenges and a demanding financial landscape, the government is engaged in overcoming obstacles, seeking collaboration with international donor agencies and development partners to expedite this crucial initiative.

In a meeting, a delegation led by the Country Director of the Korea International Cooperation Agency , Yeon Je Hoe, and the Country Manager of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), Jennifer Ankrom Khan, engaged in discussions with the chief minister.

He highlighted the key role of economic development and prosperity as potent tools to counteract the adverse effects of militancy and terrorism. He emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to a ‘Human Resource Export Strategy,’ designed to offer market-oriented crash courses to the youth, empowering them with the skills needed to secure job opportunities.

Read Economic uplift plan tailored for NMDs

The meeting delved into matters of mutual interest, placing a special focus on ongoing public welfare projects within the province, supported by UNOPS and KOICA. Provincial Minister Dr. Syed Sarfaraz Ali Shah and other officials were in attendance.

The CM expressed gratitude for the continuous support provided by UNOPS and KOICA and conveyed the province’s dedication to their shared goals. Prospects for mutual cooperation were explored, with particular attention to ongoing and future development projects for the merged districts.

He highlighted the resilience and inherent talent of the province’s youth, underscoring the imperative need for training aligned with modern market demands.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2024.