While every country faces difficulties, successful nations choose to focus on opportunities rather than limitations: Ahsan Iqbal

LAHORE, March 15 (SABAH): Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, visited the Cancer Care Hospital in Lahore on Saturday. During his visit, he was briefed on Pakistan’s cancer treatment landscape by Prof. Dr. Sheryar, Board Member of the Cancer Care Hospital.

Addressing the gathering at the state-of-the-art charitable hospital, which provides comprehensive cancer care free of cost to deserving patients, the Minister lauded the institution as a remarkable success story. He highlighted the hospital’s invaluable contribution to healthcare and commended the dedication of Pakistani doctors and philanthropists who have made quality cancer treatment accessible to all.

Ahsan Iqbal engaged with patients and their families, inquiring about the facilities and services provided at the hospital. Expressing his admiration, he noted that the Cancer Care Hospital stands as a testament to the resilience and generosity of the Pakistani spirit. He emphasized that while many focus on the nation’s challenges, initiatives like this hospital showcase Pakistan’s potential to achieve remarkable progress through collective effort. Drawing a broader perspective, the Minister stressed the importance of fostering a positive national mindset. He observed that while every country faces difficulties, successful nations choose to focus on opportunities rather than limitations. He urged Pakistanis to adopt the same outlook, leveraging their strengths to drive progress across all sectors.

Discussing the government’s long-term economic vision, Minister Ahsan Iqbal reiterated the goals of the Uraan Pakistan initiative, aimed at transforming Pakistan into a trillion-dollar economy by 2035 and achieving a three-trillion-dollar economy by 2047, in time for the country’s centenary. He emphasized that with the same dedication and commitment seen in the establishment of the Cancer Care Hospital, similar achievements can be realized in other critical areas of development. Highlighting the increasing prevalence of cancer in Pakistan, Minister Iqbal Iqbal underscored the urgent need for enhanced public awareness and preventive measures. He noted that Pakistan faces alarming health challenges, ranking first globally in hepatitis prevalence, third in diabetes, and witnessing rising rates of malnutrition among children. He stressed that addressing these health crises is essential for the country’s progress and reiterated the government’s commitment to collaborating with provinces to implement effective solutions. Under the Uraan Pakistan initiative, a three-year national healthcare program has been launched to tackle pressing health issues.

The government has allocated Rs. 67 billion for the treatment of hepatitis and diabetes, while Rs. 8 billion has been earmarked in the upcoming budget for the provision of cardiac stents. These measures reflect the government’s determination to eliminate preventable diseases and improve public health outcomes.

Minister Ahsan Iqbal concluded by reaffirming his support for the Cancer Care Hospital and its mission. He stated that institutions thrive on human resource excellence and that this hospital serves as an inspiring model of what can be achieved through vision, dedication, and collective effort. He urged the nation to unite in combating health challenges and to work towards a healthier, more prosperous Pakistan.