Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has proposed four-pronged approach including aligning national strategies with global objectives, fostering regional and international collaboration, driving innovation and sharing knowledge to achieve sustainable development.

He made these remarks at a panel discussion during the Second High-Level Conference of the Forum on Global Action for Shared Development in Beijing today.

The Minister stated that the 5Es plan encompassing Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment & Climate Change, Energy and Infrastructure, and Equity and Empowerment aims to create a holistic and integrated approach to development.

He said that by focusing on these five pillars, Pakistan is working towards inclusive growth, efficient resource utilization, and environmental sustainability.

Highlighting the country's efforts to combat climate change, Ahsan Iqbal said that our efforts in green energy, particularly the shift towards renewable sources, directly contribute to global climate goals.

Commenting on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, he said that it has significantly contributed to sustainable development in Pakistan by enhancing infrastructure, boosting energy production, and creating economic opportunities.

He said that the development of new highways and railways under CPEC has improved connectivity, facilitating trade and economic growth. Additionally, CPEC projects in renewable energy, such as wind and solar power plants, have increased Pakistan's energy capacity while promoting cleaner, sustainable energy sources.

To highlight the importance of public-private partnerships, the Minister said that we must foster partnerships that transcend borders, encouraging public-private partnerships, and engaging civil society and academia.

He said that we must collaborate for the reform of global financial structures which was carried out after WWII and is out of step with the new global realities and development challenges.

He said that innovation is the new paradigm for development and the key catalyst for sustainable development. Investing in research and development, and promoting technological advancements, particularly in areas such as clean energy, agriculture, and digital infrastructure, can accelerate progress towards sustainable goals.

He said that China's recent strides in digital economy and e-governance are examples of how innovation can lead to greater inclusivity and efficiency. To foster innovation, the Minister said that it is crucial to create an enabling environment that supports technology enablement, enabling regulations, startups ecosystem and encourages investment in sustainable technologies.

The Federal Minister emphasized on the importance of joint research between different countries.

He said that AI is changing everything as International cooperation in this realm, such as through technology-sharing agreements, joint research initiatives and inclusive global governance can bring about groundbreaking solutions to common challenges.

He said that knowledge sharing is vital for learning from each other's experiences and by creating platforms for dialogue and exchange, we can share best practices, lessons learned, and innovative solutions.

Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal appreciated China International Development Cooperation Agency for providing this opportunity and playing an important role for knowledge sharing.

Ahsan Iqbal said that establishing knowledge hubs and facilitating cross-border educational exchanges will ensure that we collectively advance towards our shared goals.

The Minister called upon the world community to commit to working together, leveraging each other's shared strengths and resources, to build a better world for all.