ISLAMABAD, 02 AUG (DNA) – Federal Minister for Planning , Development and Reform Ahsan Iqbal said that malnutrition is a serious challenge for Pakistan and we need to be united to address this problem.

Minister said that we should work together to keep our children healthy as malnutrition reduces the learning capabilities of children which compromises economic productivity in the long run.

He expressed these views while addressing as chief guest at the United for Healthier Movement event organized by a multinational company.

He said  ”A healthy nation is pivotal to economic and social development, which is one of the major pillars in the Vision 2025 plan.  He said that government’s vision 2025 covers nutrition extensively to deal with this challenge. He emphasized that government looks forward to working together with the private and corporate sector to create awareness among the people about the importance of nutrition to raise healthy future generations

He further added that ”Healthy nation is not just about what they eat but also about how they think .A Healthy child is one who has positive thinking, self belief and  hope”  he said . If all of us become united for the future of Pakistan then we can put Pakistan among top 25 economies in the World by 2025.

He said Pakistan is rising and continues to rise. Ahsan Iqbal said that following the years of sluggish economic performance, Pakistan has turned the tide during present regime by recovering strongly to reach the point of economic take off.

“Whole world is recognizing the improving economic indicators of the country by declaring it as safe haven for billions of dollars Chinese investment”, he added. Minister said, ”political stability, continuity of policies and social harmony are elements inevitable for the development.

He urged on promoting a positive narrative of the country in the world by highlighting the success stories in various fields. Minister particularly emphasized the need to project the soft image of the country in the world and by shunning cynicism and half glass empty mentality, which always portrays a negative image of the country. ”

Economic growth, equitable wealth distribution and competitive societies are pivotal for development . We have made commendable progress towards achieving macroeconomic stability”,  said the minister. Minister said that instead of undermining each other , lets come together, align ourselves with collective goal and have positive synergy towards development of the country .

He said that government is committed to realizing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which seek collaboration between government and private sectors. Our partnership is in the spirit of synergizing resources of public and private sectors for a healthier Pakistan. DNA