PESHAWAR, Apr 29 (DNA):Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Sohail Afridi on Wednesday held a meeting with European Union Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis to discuss bilateral cooperation, education reforms, youth development and future areas of mutual collaboration.
According to the CM House spokesperson, the chief minister appreciated the European Union’s support in the establishment of the Centre of Excellence. Both sides held detailed discussions on ongoing cooperation and future opportunities for partnership in key development sectors.
The CM said the provincial government was introducing reforms in curriculum and courses in line with market demand and investing in youth in accordance with the vision of Imran Khan.
He said the education budget had been increased significantly and special focus was being given to the promotion of education across the province.
He said an Education Card had been introduced to provide free education at the intermediate level for orphan students and female students.
He added that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had suffered greatly from the effects of the Afghanistan war, and investment in youth had now become a top priority of the provincial government.
During the meeting, discussions were also held on relations with Afghanistan and the situation of refugees.
The CM said Pakistan and Afghanistan shared centuries-old historical and cultural ties and emphasized that dialogue remained the most effective way forward in dealing with bilateral issues.
He said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had maintained an annual trade volume of over Rs10 billion with Afghanistan, which had been severely affected by the current regional situation.
The EU ambassador said technology and vocational skills were among the priority sectors and described the Centre of Excellence as a modern model aligned with future needs.
He also reaffirmed the European Union’s interest in continuing cooperation with Pakistan and supporting development projects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Provincial Minister for Higher Education Meena Khan Afridi, Additional Chief Secretary Planning and Development, and senior European Union officials also attended the meeting.
