Lahore: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in her special message on the occasion of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, said that this day serves to draw the attention of the global community toward millions of people deprived of basic necessities of life.

She emphasized that poverty alleviation holds particular significance for developing countries, as the unequal distribution of resources gives rise to social and economic challenges. She noted that limited access to health and education for underprivileged communities hampers genuine global efforts to combat poverty.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the Punjab Government has created remarkable employment opportunities through initiatives such as the 'Aasan Karobar' Business Card and 'Aasan Karobar' Finance programs. She added that public welfare projects like the Ration Card for millions of workers and labourers mark a major milestone in the province's poverty reduction journey.

She further stated that the government is empowering youth through IT and technical education, equipping them with skills aligned with industrial market needs. The Chief Minister mentioned that mega projects such as Nawaz Sharif IT City, RUDA, and Ravi Green City will generate millions of new employment opportunities in the coming years.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that the 'Suthra Punjab' project alone has provided employment to over 150,000 people, a record achievement in the province's history. She added that historic projects ensuring state-of-the-art health, education, and transport facilities have been launched for the residents of underdeveloped and remote districts across Punjab.

Reaffirming her government's commitment, she concluded that poverty reduction and improving the living standards of the people of Punjab remain among the top priorities of her administration.