President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari. PHOTO: Express News/File
ISLAMABAD:
President Asif Zardari will attend the second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, from November 4-6, where he will reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to working with development partners and multilateral institutions to mobilize finance for social protection and green jobs initiatives.
The debate takes place under the auspices of the United Nations General Assembly.
According to the Presidential Secretariat, the summit will bring together leaders and policymakers from around the world to discuss ways to advance social development, promote decent work and employment opportunities, and strengthen inclusive safety nets.
On the sidelines, President Zardari will hold important meetings with world and regional leaders, including the leaders of Qatar, as well as leaders of major multilateral forums such as the United Nations and other international organizations.
It will highlight Pakistan’s commitment to inclusive growth and social protection, with the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) at the center of efforts to reduce poverty and build the resilience of vulnerable groups.
Pakistan’s willingness to pilot a Doha-aligned Social Protection and Employment Compact (2026-28) aimed at extending coverage to informal workers, persons with disabilities and children, while promoting decent work and green employment, will also be highlighted.
The initiative aligns national plans with the Doha Political Declaration and global commitments on social protection and financing for development.
The President will highlight Pakistan’s intention to work closely with development partners and multilateral institutions to mobilize finance for social protection and green jobs through mechanisms such as SDG stimulus measures, debt-for-social or climate swaps, and South-South cooperation under the China Global Development Initiative.
