October 31, 2006	Tuesday	Shawwal 7, 1427

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ISLAMABAD, Oct 30: The Prince of Wales International Business Leaders Forum (IBLF) and the Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) have entered into an alliance to contribute towards development and economic empowerment of the disadvantaged communities.

A memorandum of understanding was signed in this regard between PPAF chief executive officer Kamal Hyat and his IBLF counterpart Robert Davies at a local hotel on Monday.

The agreement coincides with the visit of the royal couple. Prince Charles had set up the IBLF 16 years ago. The IBLF has selected PPAF as its strategic partner for development activities in Pakistan.

On the occasion, Mr Davies said Prince Charles would be looking into socio-economic development aspects in Pakistan during his visit.

Under this agreement efforts will focus on livestock and dairy sectors and thousands of jobs will be created by addressing long-term needs of farmers. Best endeavours will follow for the prosperity of women and young people engaged in these areas.

He said this partnership with the dairy industry would help the farmers improve their marketing and distribution strategies, and above all give them competitive edge in the long-run by improving the quality of their products.

Terming the agreement a marriage between the disadvantaged communities and top business societies, the PPAF CEO Kamal Hyat said it was a defining moment in the history of Pakistan’s socio- economic development.