The World Bank delegation led by Country Director Patchamuthu Illangovan called on Punjab chief minister Sardar Usman Buzdar, here on Wednesday and discussed World Bank assisted programs and expansion of bilateral cooperation.

Both sides agreed to expand cooperation in agriculture, livestock, food, education, tourism, urban development and environment and further decided to complete the restructuring of the World Bank assisted smart program by December 31. It was also agreed upon to expedite progress on the Punjab cities program and Punjab green development program. The necessary spadework will be completed at the earliest to speedily complete WB assisted projects.

Patchamuthu Illangovan reiterated that World Bank will continue working with the Punjab government. Secretary P&D informed the meeting that World Bank is providing US $1.7 billion assistance for nine projects in Punjab while four projects, costing 645 million dollars, are in the pipeline.

The World Bank delegation was comprised of manager (operations) Ms Milinda Good, senior operations officer and different experts.

Talking on this occasion, the chief minister termed World Bank as a strong partner of the Punjab government and appreciated its cooperation. "We welcome the World Bank's assistance and cooperation will be extended to it in the future, as well and the early completion of World Bank assisted projects will be ensured for public welfare," he added.

The CM further said that the PTI government is following a policy of composite development and a holistic approach has been adopted to bring poor localities at par with the developed areas. Poverty alleviation and creation of new employment opportunities are our important priorities, he added. He said that youth is a major part of the population and honorable employment could be provided to them through skills development programs which will make the youth self-reliant to help strengthen the national economy.

Provincial ministers Hashim Jawan Bakht, Samiullah Ch, Nauman Langrial, Sardar Hussain Bahadur Dareshk, Bao Rizwan, advisor Dr Salman Shah, Chief Secretary, Chairman P&D, SMBR and high officials were also present on this occasion.

Moreover, the CM chaired a high-level meeting here on Wednesday, to review progress made on the annual development program (ADP).

The chief minister directed to complete ADP projects within their stipulated period of time as timely completion helps in correct utilization of resources and facilitates the people to reap the fruits of development projects.

He directed to expedite work on development schemes adding that schemes relating to healthcare, education and provision of clean drinking water should be completed on a priority basis. The PTI government believes in delivery and line departments are responsible for achieving the targets within their timelines, he added.