ISLAMABAD: Islamabad will host a two-day international conference on poverty reduction and economic growth on October 13 and 14.
Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation Syed Imran Ahmad Shah announced the event on Friday. He said participants from 12 countries would attend.
The conference will focus on reducing poverty, promoting fair economic growth and helping communities build stable livelihoods. Participants will share ideas, discuss policies and explore joint solutions.
Shah spoke at a press briefing with Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) Chief Executive Officer Nadir Gul Barech.
The minister said the conference supports Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s “Uraan Pakistan” vision. This plan aims to improve public welfare and promote economic growth, especially for poor and vulnerable communities.
Conference to Focus on Poverty Reduction
Shah said the event would help participants review progress in poverty reduction. They will also share research and discuss practical solutions.
The conference will bring together government bodies, development partners and local communities. Their goal is to turn policy plans into real improvements for people.
Shah also highlighted the media’s role in raising awareness. He urged journalists to report on poverty relief programmes and explain how people can benefit from them.
He said better public awareness could help more people access financial support and economic opportunities.
PPAF Calls for Long-Term Solutions
Barech said PPAF had organised the conference under the theme “Poverty to Prosperity”. The organisation is working with the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, the Centre of Excellence for National Cohesion and Outreach, and Paigham-e-Pakistan.
The event will take place ahead of the United Nations’ International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on October 17.
Barech said poverty reduction requires more than short-term financial aid. He stressed the need for social protection, skills training, productive assets and access to finance.
He also called for stronger links between small businesses and markets.
Poor households often face sudden financial shocks. These include floods, illness and loss of income. Barech said stronger livelihoods could help families recover from such challenges.
PPAF Reports Millions in Loans and Training
Barech shared details of PPAF’s development work across Pakistan. The organisation operates in 157 districts through 164 partner organisations.
Since 2014, PPAF has facilitated 3.69 million interest-free loans worth Rs149.61 billion. The organisation reports a recovery rate of 98 per cent.
PPAF-backed projects have also helped create more than 88,000 jobs. In addition, 501,500 people have received skills and vocational training.
The organisation has supported 35,290 community infrastructure projects. These schemes have benefited around 17.57 million people.
Global Lessons for Stronger Communities
Barech said the conference would draw on Pakistan’s experience and lessons from South Asia and other regions.
Participants will explore solutions that countries can adapt and expand. The aim is to reduce poverty, create more economic opportunities and help communities withstand future challenges.
The minister and PPAF chief executive also answered media questions about poverty relief programmes, community development and the conference’s expected results.
