In the wake of recent intense monsoon rains that caused significant loss of lives and livelihoods, Pakistan has issued a stark warning about the escalating burden of climate change, with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar calling on the international community to bolster financial and technological support for vulnerable developing nations.
Marking the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction on Monday, the Deputy Prime Minister, who also serves as Foreign Minister, reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering dedication to global initiatives aimed at lessening disaster risk, susceptibility, and damages. He emphasized that such measures are crucial for both humanitarian reasons and for achieving sustainable development.
Recalling the country’s recent struggles with climate-induced calamities, Dar pointed to the devastating 2022 floods, along with recurring droughts and heatwaves. He described the latest monsoon season’s deadly impact as a potent reminder of the growing threat posed by a shifting climate.
“These experiences have strengthened our resolve to focus on proactive, technology-driven, and inclusive disaster risk management,” the Deputy Prime Minister stated, signaling a strategic shift towards pre-emptive action.
In line with this vision, Pakistan is implementing its National Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy 2025-2030. Dar explained this as a comprehensive, multi-hazard approach that prioritizes prevention, preparedness, and building resilience at the national, provincial, and district levels of administration.
The nation’s policies are aligned with the global Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030). Key priorities include reinforcing early warning systems, advancing anticipatory action, incorporating risk mitigation into development planning, and harnessing innovation to manage emerging threats more effectively.
Dar concluded with an appeal for enhanced international cooperation, urging for improved technology transfer and increased financing to assist developing countries in mitigating and adapting to the accelerating impacts of climate change. “Pakistan stands in solidarity with all nations in reaffirming our collective responsibility to build a safer, more resilient, and sustainable world,” he affirmed.