**Punjab Ready to Lead: High-Level Family Planning Learning Event Set to Begin in Lahore**

**LAHORE – July 2, 2026** – All preparations are complete, and the stage is set for a landmark learning event today at the PC Hotel in Lahore, where policymakers, health experts, and development partners will gather to make a powerful case for increased investment in family planning for population stabilization in Punjab.

Organized by the **Population Council** in collaboration with **UK International Development**, the event—titled *“A Case for Further Investment in Family Planning for Population Stabilization”*—is scheduled to commence shortly with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a series of high-impact sessions.

The agenda reflects a carefully curated program designed to drive meaningful dialogue and action. Dr. Ali Mir, Country Director of the Population Council, will open with welcome remarks and contextual evidence drawn from the DAPPAK initiative, setting the tone for what promises to be a transformative discussion.

A distinguished panel, moderated by Dr. Salma Hamid, will deliberate on actionable pathways toward population stabilization. The panel features leading voices including Dr. Zeba Sathar, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed Sulehria, Dr. Khalid Mehmood, Dr. Salma Zubair, and Captain (R) Dr. Usman Ali Khan.

The event will also feature special remarks from **Mr. Ben Warrington**, Deputy High Commissioner of the British High Commission, and **Ms. Nadia Saqib**, Secretary of Health for Punjab, alongside addresses from **Ms. Jahan Ara Menzoor Watta**, **Honorable Khawaja Imran Nazir**, Minister of Health for Punjab, and **Chief Guest Honourable Ms. Marriyum Aurangzeb**, Senior Minister of Punjab.

With all logistical and technical arrangements in place, attendees are arriving, and the venue is abuzz with optimism. The event is expected to conclude with a group photo and lunch, marking the beginning of what many hope will be a renewed commitment to family planning and sustainable development in the province.

As the clock ticks toward the start, Punjab stands poised to take another decisive step on its journey from pathways to progress—and ultimately, to prosperity.