PESHAWAR: Development partners from around the world joined forces at a landmark conference hosted by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to catalyse public investments for the advancement of the merged districts.

The conference, held in Peshawar, saw a convergence of major stakeholders committed to enhancing the socioeconomic fabric of the region.

The participants, including the United States Agency for International Development, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the European Union (EU), alongside UN agencies like UNDP, Unicef, FAO, WFP and IOM, reaffirmed their unwavering dedication to the development of the merged districts.

During the conference, key presentations highlighted the profile, challenges, progress and collaborative opportunities within the merged districts. Strategic areas of partnership were outlined, including a robust economic plan, an education literacy campaign (Ilm Tolo Da Para), and various development opportunities for Dir and Chitral areas.

Notable commitments were announced, with the ADB pledging $1 billion towards development initiatives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasising sustainable growth. Similarly, the World Bank shared its commitment of $500 million to address critical gaps in infrastructure, energy and education.

Published in Dawn, April 18th, 2024