Attending the Launching Ceremony of the URAAN Pakistan Project: A Vision for a $1 Trillion Economy by 2035
On 31 December 2024, I was invited to attend the launching ceremony of URAAN Pakistan (National Economic Transformative Plan), aimed at reshaping Pakistan’s economic trajectory from 2024 to 2029. This ambitious five-year plan, spearheaded by the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Minister of Planning, Dev & SPL Initiatives Dr. Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhry, is set to redefine Pakistan’s economic landscape, steering it towards becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2035.
The URAAN Pakistan Transformative Economic Plan is a movement designed to harness the potential of the country and its people. It is anchored in the 5Es Model, focusing on five pivotal areas of development to accelerate economic growth and national transformation.
The Ministry of Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasized the critical pillars of the plan. From sustainable fiscal policies to innovative strategies for enhancing exports and curbing trade deficits, they presented a roadmap to foster financial stability and economic resilience.
Dr. Ahsan Iqbal introduced the audience to the 5Es Model, a framework that encapsulates:
- Exports — Drive export-led growth in agriculture, IT, manufacturing, minerals, services, and blue economy.
- E-Pakistan — Empowering Youth to accelerate digital transformation and expand IT, telecom, and Science sector.
- Environment — Addressing water and food security challenges,
- Energy and Infrastructure — transition to renewable and efficient energy solutions.
- Equity, Ethics, and Empowerment — ensure zero hunger, focus on health, education, and population planning, and empower youth, women, and marginalized groups.
This model serves as the backbone of the URAAN Project, aiming to integrate these elements into a cohesive strategy for national progress.
Both Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif underscored the critical role of the nation, particularly the youth, in achieving the plan’s ambitious goals. They highlighted how collective effort, innovation, and unity could drive Pakistan towards unparalleled growth.
The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of the URAAN Pakistan logo and the official website. This moment signified the beginning of a new chapter in Pakistan’s history. Dignitaries such as the Chief Minister of Punjab Mariyum Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, and other esteemed officials graced the occasion, showcasing their commitment to this national vision.
The URAAN Pakistan Project represents hope, ambition, and a shared dream of prosperity. With a well-structured plan, strong leadership, and the involvement of every Pakistani, the country stands on the brink of an economic revolution.
