Aik News: Sustainable development and a prosperous society are not possible without empowering women; women's economic stability is the foundation of sustainable development and a fundamental requirement of Islamic teachings.

Addressing the OIC Ministerial Conference on Women, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani said that Islam granted women equality, education, and economic rights 14 centuries ago. He said that Muslim women have played an important role in knowledge, leadership, and social development throughout history.

He said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was the first woman Prime Minister and a champion of women's rights. He added that Pakistan is committed to promoting women's education, digital inclusion, entrepreneurship, and financial independence, and that the Benazir Income Support Programme has provided economic empowerment to millions of women.

He further said that effective participation of women in economic activities is the need of the hour. Violence and discrimination against women are the biggest obstacles to development, and Pakistan has enacted effective legislation for the protection and rights of women.

The Senate Chairman said that education and health are the fundamental pillars of women's genuine economic stability. He urged OIC member states to take joint measures for women's economic empowerment and said that parliamentary diplomacy is an effective means of addressing common global challenges.