The engagement enabled high-level talks between Sindh and the World Bank, focusing on development priorities and forging long-term strategic collaboration
By Imtiaz Hussain
LARKANA: World Bank Group President Ajay Banga visited Mohenjo-daro in Larkano, Sindh, on Thursday, accompanied by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah. The visit began in Bahawal Jatt village, Taluka Dokri, where residents extended a warm welcome to Banga, reflecting the local community’s enthusiasm at hosting an international dignitary.
The engagement provided an opportunity for high-level discussions on development priorities and long-term strategic collaboration between Sindh and the World Bank. During the visit, Chief Minister Shah and President Banga held detailed discussions to align Sindh’s development priorities with the World Bank’s “jobs-first” strategy and Pakistan’s ten-year Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for 2026–2035.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a long-term partnership aimed at transforming Pakistan’s demographic challenges into inclusive, job-rich growth opportunities. The dialogue highlighted initiatives to promote private-sector-led employment, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), expand opportunities for youth and women, and strengthen social sectors including health, nutrition, and access to clean water to reduce stunting.
Other areas of focus included agri-value chains, resilient housing, and programs aimed at improving urban infrastructure and living standards. With an active World Bank portfolio of $3.86 billion in Sindh, the province is seeking to accelerate development through targeted interventions that stimulate economic growth and social welfare.
The visit also included a tour of Mohenjo-daro’s archaeological site, where the delegation explored ancient ruins, the museum, and the stupa. Banga and Shah observed Sindhi handicrafts, cultural performances, and the 5,000-year-old urban planning and drainage systems, highlighting the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
Officials noted that the visit served not only as a cultural exchange but also as a platform to strengthen development partnerships, signaling a shared vision for sustainable, inclusive growth in Sindh and Pakistan at large.
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