PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal, Minister of Planning and Development, always gave innovative and forward looking long term plans that if pursued vigorously by successive governments, our economic landscape would have been far better and not faced with current dire situation. This time around, Mr Ahsan has come up with 5Es framework i.e. exports, e-Pakistan, environment, energy, equity and empowerment and that shows his fine understanding of country’s needs and determination to build a resilient and prosperous nation.
We applaud his vision and believe that implementation in letter and in spirit can really turnaround the country. Exports play a pivotal role in economic development and job creation. By enhancing and diversifying our export basket, we can achieve the long cherished dream of breaking the begging bowl once and for all. A focus on e-Pakistan will enable the country to compete in global digital economy. Emphasising the environment acknowledges the need for sustainable development and preservation of natural resources for future generations. At present our energy sector seriously requires reforms and a shift from imported energy to the one that is more reliant on indigenous resources. A reliable and affordable energy sector will facilitate industrial growth and meet the needs of a growing population. The inclusion of equity and empowerment in the framework is important in the context that benefits of progress reach all segments of the society, leaving no one behind. By fostering an inclusive and equitable society, we can ensure an environment where every citizen thrives and contributes to nation’s development.
Vision 2010 and Vision 2025 were also the brainchild of Ahsan Iqbal yet due to lack of continuity these mostly remained only on papers and could not be implemented. This should not happen to the 5Es, if we really want to move forward. There should be a larger political consensus to turn this framework into a reality. As this government is left with few months in power, whosoever forms the next government must follow it to create a Pakistan that is economically vibrant, technologically advanced, environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive and equitable.
