Islamabad: The World Bank (WB) on Thursday urged the government to remove any impediments in the way of projects funded by it in Pakistan, a news source reported. WB officials expressed their concerns on the matter during the three-day portfolio review meetings chaired by Minister for Economic Affairs Makhdum Khusro Bakhtyar.
According to sources, the aim of the portfolio review meetings was to determine the progress of the ongoing WB-funded projects in Pakistan. The meetings also discussed the implementation issues and suggested remedial measures for a streamlined execution of projects and maximising disbursements.
Sources added that the WB had expressed its concern over the delay experienced in various projects and asked for removal of all bottlenecks. They added that the ongoing WB portfolio in Pakistan stood at USD 10.4 billion for 52 projects.
During the first day of the meetings, members reviewed projects pertaining roads, power, water, health, education, and social protection. The second day was dedicated to discussing projects in Sindh and Balochistan. On the third day, the meeting discussed projects in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Bakhtyar has directed all authorities concerned to remove any issued impeding the WB-funded projects in Pakistan. He also emphasised the need for timely and quality provision of public services.
