Zardari presses for debt relief, fairer global finance at Doha summit

President Asif Ali Zardari called for sweeping reforms to the international financial system, arguing that burdens on developing countries must be eased through debt relief and fairer taxation. Addressing the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, he said current structures limit poor nations' ability to invest in people and inclusive growth.

He endorsed the Doha Political Declaration and reiterated Pakistan's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, stating the government aims to lift literacy to 90% and get every child into school within five years. Zardari spotlighted the Benazir Income Support Programme as an internationally recognised social protection model that has supported millions of families.

The president linked climate resilience to social progress, citing projects like green housing and mangrove restoration, and emphasised youth-focused initiatives including a national internship programme. He warned that water disputes and violations of the Indus Waters Treaty threaten the livelihoods of 240 million Pakistanis.

Zardari also condemned atrocities in Palestine and reaffirmed Pakistan's support for the right to self-determination in both Palestine and Kashmir. "Development must begin and end with the betterment of people," he said, urging collective action for a more equitable world.