KARACHI: The Government of Sindh and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have agreed to explore strategic collaboration in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, climate-resilient development, agriculture, healthcare, and human capital development to accelerate sustainable economic growth across the province.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and IFC Division Director for Pakistan Simon Andrews at the Chief Minister House on Monday.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said the provincial government is actively seeking investment in high-growth sectors, including the establishment of an international data centre and the expansion of private-sector renewable energy projects.
“We are focused on creating an enabling environment for investment in emerging sectors, particularly digital infrastructure and renewable energy, which are critical for economic growth and job creation,” he said.
The meeting also reviewed opportunities to strengthen agricultural value chains through improved storage, processing facilities and mechanisation to enhance farmers’ productivity and incomes.
Simon Andrews reaffirmed IFC’s interest in supporting Sindh’s initiatives in healthcare, nutrition, skills development and broader human capital enhancement. Discussions also covered collaboration on the province’s stunting reduction programme aimed at improving children’s health and educational outcomes.
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah emphasized that Sindh’s long-term prosperity depends on investing in its youth through better healthcare, education and skills development.
The two sides also discussed addressing workforce shortages in the healthcare sector, particularly nursing. The chief minister said the provincial government aims to produce at least 15,000 nurses annually to meet growing domestic demand. Both parties agreed to develop a comprehensive framework for basic nursing education and specialized training.
The meeting further explored cooperation on climate-resilient infrastructure and integrating climate risk considerations into public-private partnership (PPP) projects. The IFC’s Sustainable Infrastructure Advisory Team offered technical assistance to strengthen climate risk assessment, adaptation planning and resilience measures in infrastructure development.
Sindh’s PPP Unit sought IFC’s advisory support for capacity building, the preparation of climate resilience guidelines and the integration of climate risk assessment tools into project planning.
“Building resilience into project planning is no longer optional but essential for sustainable development,” the chief minister said, adding that future infrastructure must be designed to withstand the increasing impacts of climate change.
The IFC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sindh’s sustainable development agenda through investments and technical expertise in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, agribusiness, healthcare and climate-smart infrastructure. Both sides agreed to continue consultations on developing a comprehensive framework for climate-resilient PPP projects that promote long-term economic and social development.
The meeting was also attended by Provincial Minister Jam Khan Shoro, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, and Finance Secretary Fayaz Jatoi.
