PM Kakar Affirms Pakistan’s Support for China’s Global Development Initiative and Emphasizes Adequate Financing for SDGs at UN Meeting

New York: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar expressed Pakistan’s strong support for China’s Global Development Initiative (GDI), emphasizing the importance of cooperation, partnerships, and adequate financing to address issues like extreme poverty, food security, and climate change. He made these remarks during a high-level meeting at the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly, presided over by China’s Vice President Han Zheng.

PM Kakar highlighted the deep strategic partnership between Pakistan and China and the significance of initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He pointed out the challenges faced by developing countries due to the convergence of crises such as COVID-19, conflict, and climate change and praised China’s support in achieving the SDGs.

The GDI, launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping in September 2021, focuses on eight priority areas, including strengthening food production, sustainable infrastructure investment, healthcare system resilience, and bridging the digital divide.

PM Kakar stressed the critical need for adequate and appropriate financing, as the current financing gap for the SDGs stands at $4.2 trillion annually. He highlighted the GDI’s potential to bridge this gap and ensure the implementation of commitments made by developed countries.

He welcomed President Xi’s announcement of a $10 billion fund for GDI implementation and expressed Pakistan’s readiness to enhance cooperation with the Group of Friends of GDI to advance shared commitments for SDG implementation.

During his visit to the UN General Assembly, PM Kakar attended various meetings, including those related to the Global Development Initiative, Sustainable Development Goals, and bilateral meetings with leaders from Iran and Turkey. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties and enhancing economic cooperation with Iran. PM Kakar emphasized the importance of leveraging the geographical location of both countries to promote regional peace and prosperity through increased trade and connectivity.

The Pakistan-Iran relationship is characterized by regular high-level exchanges and cooperation across various mutual interests.