Italy, Pakistan unite to uplift socio-economic conditions of marginalised groups: CEO
ISLAMABAD (APP): The Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) on Monday celebrated the culmination of a transformative journey with a prestigious Dissemination Event .
The event concluded the final impact assessment of the Italian-funded “Programme for Poverty Reduction (PPR) through Rural Development in Balochistan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, newly merged Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA) districts, and neighboring areas,” underscoring significant success in Pakistan’s poverty alleviation efforts.
The programme was implemented by PPAF in collaboration with 17 partner organizations, covering 38 union councils across 14 districts in Balochistan and KP.
Addressing the participants, the Ambassador of Italy to Pakistan Marilina Armellin expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), the consulting firm IZI Spa, and the federal and provincial authorities for their unwavering dedication to the Programme for Poverty Reduction (PPR).
She emphasized the significance of the program’s implementation, made possible through a EUR 40 million soft loan from the Italian Government, in fostering meaningful partnerships and addressing the complex and persistent nature of poverty in Pakistan.
Ambassador Armellin highlighted the instrumental role of the PPR in initiating efforts to improve living conditions and provide opportunities for economic growth, demonstrating the Italian government’s commitment to forging collaborative and strategic interventions. “Indeed, the high level of involvement and support reflects the successful outcomes of the program and the shared dedication to poverty alleviation.”
She further emphasized the value of the recent impact assessment report, which offers comprehensive insights into the programme’s effectiveness and serves as a road map for future poverty reduction efforts.
Ambassador Armellin concluded by expressing her anticipation for the presentation and wished all attendees a fruitful session.
“This enduring engagement is a testament to the program’s positive impact, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual commitment between both countries,” Ambassador Armellin added.
While, applauding the support and efforts of the Government of Pakistan in the successful implementation of the PPR, CEO of PPAF, Nadir Gul Barech highlighted the significance of the event, underscoring PPAF’s crucial role for reduction of poverty alleviation and sustainable development in Pakistan.
He commended the collaborative efforts of the Italian Government, federal and provincial government departments, and PPAF partner organizations, which have contributed to making the PPR a resounding success. “This project has significantly contributed to our overall efforts in poverty reduction in the targeted areas,” said Barech.
