ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday urged Pakistanis to make environmental protection and climate resilience a national priority, saying the country remains highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change despite contributing only a small share to global greenhouse gas emissions.
In a message on X marking World Environment Day, Sharif said Pakistan stood with the international community in reaffirming its commitment to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.
"The preservation of our environment is a shared global responsibility," the prime minister said, emphasizing that international cooperation and sustained commitment are essential to securing an environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient future.
Referring to this year's World Environment Day theme, "Climate Action," Sharif said urgent and coordinated global efforts are needed to address growing environmental challenges.
He pointed to devastating floods, prolonged droughts, extreme heatwaves, melting glaciers, water scarcity and worsening air pollution as evidence that climate change is no longer a distant threat but an immediate reality affecting millions of people worldwide.
Pakistan has repeatedly ranked among the countries most vulnerable to climate change and has suffered significant human and economic losses from extreme weather events in recent years.
Sharif said the government remains committed to expanding renewable energy, restoring forests, conserving biodiversity, improving water resource management, reducing pollution, advancing climate-smart agriculture and promoting green industries.
He added that efforts are also underway to restore natural ecosystems and strengthen environmental sustainability across the country.
The prime minister highlighted the role of young people in addressing climate challenges, saying their energy, innovation and capabilities would be critical in building a greener and more resilient Pakistan.
"By equipping them with knowledge, technology and opportunities, we can cultivate environmental awareness and lay the foundation for a sustainable and prosperous society," he said.
Sharif called on citizens, institutions, farmers and business stakeholders to adopt environmentally responsible practices and support conservation efforts.
He stressed the importance of water and energy conservation, afforestation and wildlife protection, urging Pakistanis to renew their commitment to safeguarding the environment for future generations.
"Let us reiterate our shared resolve to build a greener, healthier, cleaner and climate-resilient Pakistan," he said.
President on World Environment Day
President Asif Ali Zardari in a message on X, on Friday, reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to international cooperation on climate and environmental issues.
He said 'We will continue to support efforts aimed at ecosystem restoration, renewable energy, disaster preparedness and climate-resilient development."
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar on climate crisis
In a message issued on X, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Pakistan joined the international community in recognizing the urgent need to protect the planet and strengthen collective efforts to address the climate crisis.
Dar noted that Pakistan remains among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, facing recurring floods, accelerating glacial melt, droughts, heat waves and growing water stress. Despite these challenges, he said the country has continued to demonstrate resilience.
Dar also expressed appreciation to Azerbaijan for hosting this year’s World Environment Day, commending the country’s leadership in promoting international cooperation and constructive dialogue on global environmental issues.
