Recent floods in Pakistan affecting 33 miln people further necessitate need for enhanced cooperation b/w IFAD & Govt of Pak: Shazia Marri

ISLAMABAD, Dec 19, (SABAH): Ms. Shazia Atta Marri, Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Security held a farewell meeting via zoom with Hubert Boirard, outing Country Director International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The opportunity was also utilized to welcome newly arrived country director to Pakistan Dr. Arnoud Hameleers here on Monday.

While appreciating the contribution of Huber Boirad, the outgoing country director of IFAD, Ms. Shazia Marri said that recent floods in Pakistan affecting 33 million people further necessitate the need for enhanced cooperation between IFAD and Government of Pakistan. She hoped that IFAD under the stewardship of newly arrived country director would continue support the social protection sector, particularly the National Poverty Graduation Programme (NPGP).

She emphasised the need of enhanced cooperation with the IFAD, particularly in the field of strengthening resilience against the climate related calamities.

On his part incoming IFAD country director Dr. Arnoud Hameleers expressed his desire to continue IFAD’s support to Pakistan, and extended his gratitude to the Federal Minister for her goodwill gesture of reaching out to him. IFAD has also indicated additional financing of US$ 54 million.

The Minister of State, Faisal Karim Kundi, Joint Secretary, PASS Ministry, Programme Director NPGP and Team Lead Social Protection Delivery Unit (SPDU) were also present in the meeting.