Prime Minister Imran Khan has emphasized the need for collective national actions, regional collaboration, and multilateral cooperation to meet adverse impacts of COVID-19.

He was virtually addressing the opening segment of the 77th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific on Monday.

The Prime Minister suggested four key areas of focus to meet the challenge.

He said we have to put the people front and center for pro-poor and inclusive policies and we need to strengthen public health and social protection systems. He said these have been the primary objectives for us in Pakistan.

The Prime Minister said peace and development must be anchored in human rights, which should be upheld and protected universally. The international community needs to pay special attention to the situations of foreign occupation.

He said in building back, we have the opportunity to model our economies on more resilient and sustainable grounds. He said ambitious climate action is a way ahead and Pakistan is accordingly implementing policies for green growth.

Imran Khan said there is a dire need to mobilize adequate financing for development. He said for the developing countries, the debt issue must be addressed in a fair and sustainable manner. He said, with his "Global Initiative on Debt Relief", Pakistan has been advocating this cause on all world forums. At home, we are implementing corresponding fiscal reforms.

The Prime Minister said that only through enhanced regional and international cooperation we can reopen safely and sustainably, starting with equitable access to affordable vaccines for all.