‘DFID is Punjab government’s partner for social sector development’

LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab, Sardar Usman Buzdar on Thursday said that Department for International Development (DFID)  is a best partner of Punjab government for the development of social sector and added that this partnership will be further extended.

This he stated while meeting with Head of UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) in Pakistan Ms. Joanna Reid, who called on him at his office here today.

Both discussed the DFID funded social sector development program in Punjab and it was agreed by the DFID to extend necessary cooperation to reforms agenda of the incumbent government.

The people will be facilitated through an extended role in health, education and skills development sectors as the government fully believes in the durable development, Buzdar added.

Chief minister appreciated the cooperation extended by DFID in healthcare, education and skills development sectors adding that its role in providing necessary facilities at the doorsteps of the people and provision of girls’ education in remote hinterlands, especially in the tribal areas of Punjab, will be welcomed.

He said that provision of balanced diet to the children has been especially taken care of to make the younger generation healthy and added that government is willing to extend the scope of DFID’s cooperation in nutrition program.

Ms. Reid, on the occasion, assured that DFID will continue its cooperation with the Punjab government and support will also be provided for reforms agenda.