ISLAMABAD - Adviser to PM on Finance Dr Miftah Ismail on Wednesday chaired a meeting to review the progress of various projects being financed by international development partners.

Senior officials of Economic Affairs Division briefed the adviser on the portfolio of economic assistance relating to different multilateral and bilateral development partners including World Bank and ADB.  The briefing included the latest status of disbursement of funds under these projects.

The adviser said that effective dissemination and utilization of the funds was very important for achieving optimum results of development projects.

He stressed on the need for timely completion of projects and directed EAD to ensure effective follow up with executing agencies to ensure implementation of projects as per approved timelines.

Meanwhile, Punjab Finance Minister, Ayesha Ghaus Pasha had a meeting with Adviser to PM on Finance, Dr Miftah Ismail here on Wednesday. The two discussed financial matters pertaining to Punjab province and requirement of finances for various development projects in the province.

Ms Ayesha Ghaus Pasha gave the Adviser an update on the steps being undertaken by the provincial government for improvement of public financial management and local resource mobilization. She said the provincial government was fully focused on taking measures in terms of public service delivery. Shend also shared with the Adviser the important spheres of focus of the Punjab government.

Miftah Ismail appreciated the development progrmames and projects that the provincial government had undertaken under the leadership of CMShahbaz Shairf and said these had a noteworthy impact on the overall economic conditions in the province. In fact it was an example for others to follow, he said.

Miftah added the government was now concentrating on efforts for achieving growth target for the current fiscal year and had strong resolve to continue the process of reforms it had undertaken immediately after assuming responsibilities.

He said the government would extend full support to the provinces in their efforts for economic well being of the masses and welcome their contribution for strengthening of the national economy.