KARACHI, Nov 22: The Governor of Sindh, Mohammedmian Soomro, has praised the services rendered by the members of his Cabinet for the progress and prosperity of the province and welfare of its people.

Speaking at an Iftar dinner at the Governor House here on Thursday, Mr Soomro especially thanked the ministers appreciated their performance.

He observed that all the ministers worked with team spirit and carried forward President Musharraf’s reforms programme. He acknowledged their perfect handling of affairs relating to good governance in coordination with their respective secretaries and other officials.

The governor noted that an exemplary work had been done over the last three years in Sindh with the launching of projects having far-reaching impact which would provide long term benefits to the people. He pointed out that certain important trends were set during the period.

Highlighting the significant achievements in education and health sectors as well as in financial disciplines, the governor said that Sindh’s role appeared to be more significant than those of other provinces. Besides, he said, Sindh stood on top in some programmes.

Mr Soomro recalled that billions of rupees were outstanding for years against the province on account of State Bank, electricity and contractors’ dues before he and his cabinet were entrusted with handling of the provincial affairs. “We cleared all the dues and today, Sindh’s financial system is regarded as a clean slate,” he remarked.

In health sector, he mentioned, the achievements of the provincial government had been acknowledged by the World Health Organization as well as the federal government. Similarly, he added, the accomplishments in education sector, like compulsory primary education, free education up to secondary level and grant of stipends to girl students from class V to VIII, were worth-mentioning.

He also mentioned the establishment of the Endowment Fund for talented students seeking higher education, Pension Fund and the measures taken by the government for the provision of residential and other facilities to its employees.

Mr Soomro said that the government had provided an investment-friendly environment and made the industrial inspections and other business laws simple and transparent.

He recounted the steps taken for a remarkable improvement in the agriculture and irrigation sectors. Besides, he said, transfer of powers to the grassroots level was a significant achievement.

He expressed his gratitude for the ministers’ cooperation and their commitment to all the programmes and projects launched by the government.— APP