PM Sharif urges developed nations to lead to combat climate challenges

BAKU: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan has called on developed countries to take a leading role in addressing climate challenges, urging them to allocate funds in line with the United Nations framework.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 29th Climate Action Summit Cop-29 in Baku, Sharif highlighted that the developing nations need $6 trillion by 2030 to effectively combat climate challenges.

He underscored the gravity of the situation, stating that Pakistan has faced two devastating floods in recent years, which have left lasting impacts on the country.

“Pakistan has yet to recover from the economic and environmental damages caused by these floods. Climate change has imposed heavy economic losses on us,” he said.

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Prime Minister Sharif emphasised that developing countries urgently need the support of developed nations to manage these climate challenges.

Prime Minister Sharif also held informal meetings with world leaders at the opening ceremony of the 29th Climate Action Summit Cop-29.

He interacted with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and discussed cooperation on climate change and matters of mutual interest.

The prime minister also met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and First Lady Emine Erdogan. They discussed cooperation on globally highlighting issues of environmental pollution and climate change as well as matters of mutual interest between Turkey and Pakistan.

Sharif also met with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon. They discussed conservation of glaciers and water resources in Central Asian countries and Pakistan. They also exchanged views on expanding communication links among Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

The premier also talked to Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel and Chief Advisor of Bangladesh’s Interim Government Dr Muhammad Yunus.

They discussed growing temperatures, the threat of rising sea levels, and forest conservation in South Asia. Additionally, they talked about enhancing bilateral relations between Pakistan and both Bangladesh and Nepal.

The prime minister also met his British counterpart Sir Keir Starmer and discussed enhancing Pakistan-UK cooperation.

He also interacted with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. They discussed strengthening Pakistan-Kazakhstan relations and expanding regional connectivity.