Doha, November 4, 2025 (TNS): President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday urged comprehensive reforms in the global financial system — including debt relief, equitable taxation, and fair access to financing — to help developing countries advance social justice and sustainable development.
Addressing the Second World Summit for Social Development, the president said that existing international financial structures place “disproportionate burdens on poorer nations”, restricting their ability to invest in people-centric progress.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to social justice, inclusive growth, and global solidarity, stressing that poverty eradication, decent work opportunities, and equality must remain central to global development efforts.
“Development must begin and end with the betterment of people,” Zardari said. “We must rise above all differences to embark on a path of compassion and progress for all.”
President Zardari expressed Pakistan’s full support for the Doha Political Declaration, saying the country’s vision of inclusiveness and sustainable development aligns closely with its spirit.
Pakistan remains steadfast in placing people at the centre of policy,” he said.
Highlighting Pakistan’s progress in social welfare, the president cited the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), which has empowered over nine million families through income assistance, healthcare, and education.
He noted that the initiative is “recognised globally as one of the best social protection models.”
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Zardari pledged to raise the literacy rate to 90% and ensure universal school attendance within five years.
He also mentioned key national initiatives such as the National Youth Internship Programme and green and resilient housing projects, which aim to empower young people and strengthen climate resilience through nature-based solutions like mangrove restoration.
Expressing grave concern over the “weaponisation of water” and violations of the Indus Waters Treaty, President Zardari warned that such actions pose a “serious threat to the livelihoods of 240 million Pakistanis.”
He also strongly condemned the ongoing genocide, apartheid, and mass starvation in Palestine, calling for a just and lasting peace.
The president reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Kashmir, describing the Palestinian and Kashmiri struggles as “two sides of the same coin in the pursuit of justice and self-determination.”
