President, PM renew Pakistan’s pledge for responsible population growth on World Population Day

Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to responsible population management, stressing that empowering young people and increasing investment in education and healthcare remain central to the country’s long-term development agenda.

In his message marking World Population Day, President Zardari appealed to all segments of society—including government institutions, lawmakers, academic circles, civil society organisations, development partners, religious leaders, the media and local communities—to work in unison to improve the health, welfare and empowerment of the nation.

Referring to this year’s global theme, “Realising the Hopes and Aspirations of Young People – Today and for the Future,” the president said Pakistan’s progress depends on placing women, children and youth at the forefront of national development. He noted that such an approach would help build a fairer, more inclusive and sustainable future for generations to come.

He said World Population Day offered an opportunity for Pakistan to stand alongside the international community in assessing changing demographic trends while renewing its determination to create a society where every individual enjoys dignity, access to healthcare and equal opportunities for advancement.

Describing the country’s youthful population as one of its greatest strengths, President Zardari pointed out that over 65 percent of Pakistanis are under the age of 30.

He said this demographic advantage could become a major driver of economic expansion, innovation and social progress if young people are equipped with quality education, reliable healthcare, practical skills and meaningful employment opportunities. Investing in youth, he added, is essential for securing Pakistan’s future.

The president also highlighted the urgent need to improve the health and wellbeing of women and children, stating that maternal care, child survival, proper nutrition, education and access to essential health services are indispensable to sustainable national development.

He observed that no nation can achieve lasting prosperity if women continue to face preventable risks during pregnancy and childbirth, children remain affected by malnutrition or girls are denied education and opportunities to succeed.

Paying tribute to the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, President Zardari said her unwavering advocacy for women’s rights, dignity, education and reproductive healthcare laid the foundation for inclusive development, adding that her legacy continues to inspire efforts aimed at strengthening the role of women in society.

He further remarked that population dynamics and national development are inseparable, explaining that progress in education, healthcare, gender equality, poverty reduction and economic opportunities strengthens families, builds resilient communities and contributes to a more prosperous country.

The president said providing every woman with quality healthcare and ensuring every child receives adequate nutrition, education and care is both a national duty and a moral obligation.

He urged the nation to renew its commitment to creating a Pakistan where every citizen has the opportunity to fulfil their aspirations while transforming the country’s demographic potential into sustainable economic growth and human development.

PM Shehbaz on Saturday called for greater recognition of Pakistan’s rapidly growing population and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting responsible population planning to ensure a fairer and more prosperous future.

In his message on World Population Day, the prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s annual population growth rate of 2.55 per cent and urged all stakeholders to treat the rising population as a critical national challenge requiring immediate attention.

The country’s growing population has triggered widespread debate over its impact on the economy, healthcare system, education, resources and other essential sectors.

To address the issue, the government has recently constituted a high-level committee, which also includes the army chief as a member.

PM Shehbaz appealed to federal and provincial governments, lawmakers, development organisations, civil society, academics, the private sector, religious scholars, media and local communities to play their role in addressing population-related challenges.

He stressed the importance of informed decision-making, responsible parenthood, gender equality and sustainable development, saying collective efforts from all segments of society are essential for managing population growth and building a stronger future for Pakistan.