ISLAMABAD/LAHORE: The government of Pakistan and the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) share a common goal of enabling people to lead better lives and achieve their full potential, Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday.

Meeting with IDB President Dr Bandar M.H. Hajjar, who was leading a delegation of the bank, at his office in Islamabad, PM Khan underscored the importance of the bank for member countries and Muslim communities worldwide.

The prime minister apprised Dr Hajjar about the commitment of his government for socio-economic uplift and highlighted the flagship initiatives – Ehsaas and Naya Pakistan Housing –aimed at social welfare and poverty alleviation.

President IDB appreciated Pakistan government for pursuing people-centric growth policies. The delegation briefed PM Khan of key IDB programmes in Pakistan and offered assistance in human development and economic stability of the country. IDB also expressed support for Ehsaas programme.

Meanwhile, the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) urged the IDB to invest in various hydropower projects being launched in the country.

In a meeting with Dr Hajjar, Wapda Chairman (retired) Lt General Muzammil Hussain highlighted upcoming hydropower projects including the Mohmand Dam, Diamer Basha Dam and Keyal Khwar.

The Wapda chairman appreciated IDB for providing financial assistance to help complete various projects in the country’s hydropower sector. “IDB and Wapda have longstanding relationship of mutual cooperation, and I am confident this cooperation will further strengthen for upcoming projects”, he said.

The IDB president showed keen interest in financing hydropower projects and congratulated the Wapda chairman on Neelum Jhelum Hydropower Project landmark achievement of generating 1,040 MW beyond its installed capacity of 969 MW. “The IDB feels honoured to be a leading partner in development of this engineering marvel,” said Dr Hajjar.

The IDB provided $357.6 million for construction of 969 MW-Neelum Jhelum project. In addition, it had also provided financial assistance to the tune of $150.2 m for three high head hydropower projects namely Khan Khwar, Duber Khwar and Allai Khwar—all having cumulative generation capacity of 323MW.

Published in Dawn, May 4th, 2019