Islamabad:Dr Mahir Binici, Resident Representative, International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Pakistan, has encouraged Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) to translate complex research into accessible language for wider public and policy engagement, noting that digital technology and AI enabled tools can help think tanks bridge the gap between technical work and public understanding.
Dr Binici was speaking as chief guest at annual strategic policy retreat organised here by SDPI. The retreat focused on an internal Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) exercise, identification of emerging opportunities and agreement on policy priorities and institutional initiatives to strengthen SDPI’s relevance in 2026 and beyond.
Dr Binici also highlighted the importance of deeper analysis in a more competitive global environment and urged greater engagement with universities, international organisations and global networks to strengthen the quality and reach of policy research.
Leading the retreat, Dr Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director, SDPI, outlined the objectives of the annual huddle as a structured forum to review performance, learn from experience and set direction for future policy engagement. He announced SDPI’s intent to explore new frontiers of research in response to a rapidly changing policy landscape and reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to producing timely, policy relevant evidence. He also announced the revival of SDPI’s Policy Solutions Lab to develop rapid and practical policy recommendations including the ability to respond to major policy developments within 72 hours. He emphasised the importance of strengthening strategic communication, digital outreach and knowledge dissemination to extend SDPI’s national and international impact.
Dr Ehsan Mehmood Khan, Senior Advisor Emeritus, SDPI, described the Institute as an efficient, credible and high performing think tank with a strong external reputation built through sustained engagement with national and international stakeholders. He urged SDPI to strengthen policy dissemination and expand its digital footprint to widen influence and public engagement. He also emphasised the importance of turning strategic thinking into execution and recommended clearer annual thematic priorities to guide SDPI’s programme focus and partnerships. Earlier, Dr Shafqat Munir, Deputy Executive Director, SDPI, opened the retreat by briefing participants on the purpose and format of the day.
