Islamabad: Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal announced that Pakistan is actively engaged in global climate efforts, particularly through the Paris Agreement and subsequent COP meetings, including COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Addressing a conference titled “Breathe Pakistan” in Islamabad on Thursday, he outlined Pakistan’s priorities and measures to address climate change-related threats effectively.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister emphasized Pakistan’s role as a responsible global partner, highlighting the nation’s strengthened national climate adaptation plans. He advocated for a fair Loss and Damage Fund to support vulnerable nations and developed ecosystem-based adaptation strategies. He stated that the government is committed to ensuring that Pakistan is not just a victim of climate change but a proactive architect of climate solutions.
Ahsan Iqbal noted that despite challenges, Pakistan has been a regional leader in advocating for climate adaptation and water conservation. The government has taken proactive steps to address climate threats. He highlighted that Pakistan has faced heightened climate-induced emergencies, including floods, heat waves, and droughts impacting more than 40 million people in recent years.
He pointed out that despite contributing less than one percent to global greenhouse gas emissions, Pakistan is among the top ten most climate-vulnerable countries. Ahsan Iqbal mentioned that the Ministry of Planning is embedding climate resilience into Pakistan’s national development agenda through the 5Es Framework, which also includes Environment and Climate Change.