The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on Wednesday announced a grant of $445.6 million for socio-economic development in Pakistan.
Economic Affairs Division Secretary Dr. Kazim Niaz and USAID Mission Director in Pakistan Reed Eschliman signed a new five-year agreement to support bilateral development objectives in this regard at the Ministry of Economic Affairs in Islamabad earlier today.
Federal Minister of Economic Affairs Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and USAID Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman participated in the signing ceremony of the agreement.
The agreement was signed after a gap of 13 years since the last development partnership agreement “Pakistan Enhanced Partnership Agreement (PEPA)” was signed between the two countries in 2010. Under this agreement, USAID will provide a grant of $445.6 million over five periods.
According to a statement issued by the ministry, the agreement will be critical to Pakistan’s socio-economic development as it supports key areas such as climate-resilient economic growth, inclusive and accountable democratic governance and a healthier and more educated population.
The development objectives of DOAG are in line with our National Development Vision and the activities funded under it will be implemented in collaboration with the Government of Pakistan, thereby maintaining close bilateral relations, effective coordination. will get a boost and increase the visibility of the government.
The agreement was reached between the government and USAID after an extensive consultation process with federal and provincial departments. It initiates a new effort to increase transparency and accountability as well as involvement of Pakistani organizations in its implementation.
“The United States is one of the largest donors of development assistance to Pakistan, partnering with the Government of Pakistan, civil society, and international organizations on a range of programs aligned with Pakistan’s priorities. The US-Pakistan look forward to advancing through the ‘Green Alliance’, a framework focused on agriculture, water management and clean energy,” the Economic Affairs Minister said.
Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary of Economic Affairs Division thanked the US Government and USAID for their continuous support to Pakistan for socio-economic development of Pakistan.
