ISLAMABAD: The World Bank on Tuesday assured continuous support to the government of Pakistan in achieving the priority development objectives, a press release issued by Ministry of Economic Affairs said.

Minister for Economic Affairs Omar Ayub Khan held a consultative meeting with World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine. Ongoing projects and development priorities of government of Pakistan for the next years, the press release said.

The two sides emphasised the need of improved rural infrastructure including farm to market roads.

In order to improve the rural economy, it was discussed to improve agriculture productivity through provision of improved seeds and efficient water management system.

It was highlighted that cold storage is critical to manage short-term demand-supply gaps and price stability.

Mr Khan emphasised agriculture and rural transformation through improved connectivity. Lack of economic opportunities and limited connectivity of rural area with urban centers has caused the income gap between urban and rural residents, he said.

The minister added that rural development was vital for sustainable socioeconomic development and environmental viability of a country.

Furthermore, farmer and non-farmer residents of rural areas can enhance their income through value-addition in agricultural products, he said.

“Improved connectivity between the rural and urban areas will not only facilitate the travelers but also unleash the development potential the remote areas. A reliable and efficient farm to market road network helps to improve supply chain of agricultural products to urban consumers and agro-based industries,” the ministers added.

Published in Dawn, May 26th, 2021