Ahsan Iqbal unveils an ambitious five-year national economic plan today.

LAHORE: Federal Minister for Planning and Development, Ahsan Iqbal, emphasised the need for an “economic long march” rather than a political one as he addressed a ceremony unveiling the National Economic Plan for the next five years. The new plan, named ‘Udaan Pakistan,’ is designed to steer the country towards sustainable economic development.

In his address in Lahore, Iqbal underscored that the plan would play a crucial role in achieving lasting economic transformation in Pakistan. Drawing on past efforts by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) governments, Iqbal noted that the party had always prioritised the nation’s sovereignty and self-reliance. He stated that this new five-year economic strategy aims to build upon those foundations, focusing on creating a robust and self-sustaining economy.

The minister highlighted key areas for the country’s economic growth, including the promotion of exports, the expansion of e-commerce, human resource development, technological advancement, and the modernisation of the agricultural sector. He also emphasised the importance of implementing energy-efficient systems as part of the broader effort to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Iqbal also pointed out that for durable progress to be achieved, peace, political stability, and the continuity of policies are essential. He stressed that these elements are critical for maintaining long-term economic growth and ensuring the success of the country’s transformation.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb also spoke at the ceremony, stating that the new economic plan would position Pakistan to graduate from reliance on external loans. He asserted that the ongoing IMF program would likely be the last such loan the country would require. Aurangzeb pledged to continue pursuing economic reforms with perseverance, emphasising that the private sector would play a leading role in Pakistan’s economic future.