Report: Hurish Shah FT:
ISLAMABAD — Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has stressed that poverty alleviation must go beyond immediate relief by creating sustainable economic opportunities, ensuring social justice and enabling people to live with dignity and independence.
Addressing the closing session of an international conference titled “Inclusive and Resilient Economic Empowerment and Growth — From Poverty to Prosperity” as chief guest at a local hotel in Islamabad, he said inclusive growth required a comprehensive approach encompassing social protection, skills development, economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.
Recalling his tenure as Prime Minister, Gilani highlighted the launch of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) as a vital safety net for deserving families. He also underscored the significance of the 18th Constitutional Amendment and appreciated the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) for promoting community-driven development, interest-free financial services and livelihood opportunities, particularly for women and disadvantaged communities.
He called for stronger coordination between social protection, skills training, productive assets, market access and employment opportunities. Emphasising women's empowerment and youth development, he also stressed the need to protect vulnerable communities from climate-related challenges and economic shocks through coordinated efforts by the government, parliament, development partners and civil society.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, Gilani said, “Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice.” He reaffirmed the Senate's commitment to inclusive development, social justice and public welfare, urging stakeholders to translate the conference declaration into practical measures that improve people's lives.
The Senate chairman also congratulated recipients of the Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan Excellence Awards, describing women's empowerment as essential to Pakistan's socioeconomic progress. He commended the PPAF, the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, development partners and participating institutions for their contributions to the conference.
A large number of women parliamentarians attended the event. Gilani acknowledged their role in legislation and policymaking and presented shields in recognition of their services.
