Education, health to get bulk of US aid: PM

Source: Express Tribune

Dated: July 09, 2010

 

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said the bulk of the aid money Pakistan is to receive from the US under the Kerry-Lugar Act would be spent for the development of social sector like education and health.

Chairing a meeting here on Thursday, Gilani directed the authorities concerned not to ‘lose sight of the welfare and benefits to the people at large’.

Pakistan has been promised $1.5 billion every year for coming half a decade under the act that was initially criticized by the political opposition and the powerful military. But the government managed to cool tempers later.

The premier said the government considers social sector development as its top priority. “It is a significant area requiring concerted efforts and appropriate allocations both through our own sources as well as assistance from friendly countries,” he added. The national education policy, the prime minister said, comprehensively covers various aspects, which would help achieve the Millennium Development Goals. The health policy and women empowerment initiatives, he stressed, also have to be holistic to meet the growing needs of the society.

For more details: http://tribune.com.pk/story/26599/education-health-to-get-bulk-of-us-aid-pm/