We need to strengthen public health and social protection systems, PM tells UN's ESCAP session

(Karachi) Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that there is a need to take collective actions and regional cooperation to face the challenges of adverse impacts of COVID-19.

Addressing the 77th virtual session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) on Monday, Imran said it is time to devise policies to benefit the poor population in wake of the deadly pandemic.

"We need to strengthen public health and social protection systems which have been the primary objectives for us in Pakistan," the premier remarked.

The PM pointed out that peace and development must be anchored in human rights, which should be upheld and protected universally. The international community needs to pay special attention to the situations of foreign occupation.

He said there is an opportunity to model our economies on more resilient and sustainable grounds as many nations are recovering from the COVID crisis. "We should implement the ambitious climate action and Pakistan is accordingly implementing policies for green growth."

Imran Khan said there is a dire need to mobilize adequate financing for development. He said for the developing countries, the debt issue must be addressed in a fair and sustainable manner. "Pakistan has been raising the matter on all world forums and at home, we are implementing corresponding fiscal reforms," he stated.

The premier said that there should be equitable access to affordable coronavirus vaccine which could be made possible through enhanced regional and international cooperation.