The best decisions in order to protect life, to build peace, to change traditions that affect women’s dignity, and to seek respect for human rights, but our world needs the presence, participation and co-responsibility of women in decision making.

Human development is a process of expanding choices for all people, not just for one part of society. Such a process becomes unjust and discriminatory if most women are excluded from its benefits. And the continuing exclusion of women from many economic and political opportunities is a continuing indictment of modern progress. For women, it is still an unequal world. This inequality varies from country to country as it does from society to society.

It is true that after centuries of neglect, the past two decades, as part of an integrated approach to human development, have witnessed the demonstration of great awareness and considerable concern for closing the gender gap through building women’s capabilities. Despite this, disparity between women and men persists – in their access to education, health and nutrition, in their right to life and property and protection by their societies and legal systems. This determines the pace of progress of a nation and how much women can contribute to and benefit out of this progress.

Pakistan is a developing country, which is striving hard to face the global economy challenges. The role of women is the crucial factor in the development of our country.

We waste our major percentage of population without taking any creative work. The role of women in development of a nation is very vertical. But we continuously ignore this important asset of our nation. A well-educated woman can perform her responsibility more efficiently and effectively. Women must be regarded as agents and beneficiaries of change. Investing in women’s capabilities and empowering them to exercise their choices is not only valuable in it but is also the surest way to contribute to economic growth and overall development.

Now I look forward to that day when we are walking together with all those who are searching for ways of a more humane life, which will give dignity to all the women.