Pakistan’s Unwavering Commitment to SDGs and Push for Global Financial Reform

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Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar emphasized the need for a fairer global financial system to support developing countries.

Since adopting the SDGs in 2016, Pakistan has integrated them into national policies, including the Uraan Pakistan economic transformation plan (2024–2029). This initiative focuses on export-led growth and structural reforms in sectors such as agriculture, energy, information technology, social protection, and infrastructure.

By mid-2025, Pakistan had made macroeconomic improvements. Inflation decreased significantly, interest rates were reduced, and the current account showed a surplus. Despite these gains, challenges persist. Pakistan ranks 137th out of 166 countries on the 2024 SDG Index, with a score of 57.02. Only 35% of the SDG targets are currently on track.

Public debt remains a major constraint. Although the debt-to-GDP ratio has declined modestly through restructuring efforts, high debt-servicing obligations continue to limit fiscal space for critical SDG sectors, including health, education, and resilience initiatives.

In response, Pakistan has called for greater access to concessional financing, debt relief, and grant-based support. Without reforms to the global financial system, progress toward the SDGs may slow considerably.

To address its annual SDG financing gap, Pakistan is encouraging public-private partnerships and exploring innovative financing mechanisms. The country aims to strengthen domestic resource mobilization while seeking international support to maintain development momentum.

Pakistan remains committed to advancing the SDGs through focused reforms and strategic planning. However, ongoing economic challenges and limited fiscal space highlight the urgent need for global cooperation and financial restructuring to achieve the 2030 goals.