PM Sharif reaffirms support for UN humanitarian efforts in meeting with OCHA chief

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed the nation's commitment to strengthening cooperation with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) during a meeting with UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, the Prime Minister's Office said.

According to the statement, the prime minister appreciated the invaluable humanitarian work being undertaken by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in responding to complex emergencies around the world.

"The prime minister acknowledged OCHA's continued support to Pakistan, particularly during the devastating floods of 2022, and thanked the organization for its assistance in strengthening the country's disaster response efforts,” the statement said.

"The Prime Minister noted that Pakistan's national and provincial disaster management institutions have significantly enhanced their capacity to respond to climate-induced disasters over the years," it added.

He also emphasized that the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related events underscore the need for greater preparedness, resilience, and closer coordination among all stakeholders at the national, regional, and international levels, the statement said.

Fletcher appreciated the longstanding partnership and close cooperation between Pakistan and OCHA, commending PM Sharif's efforts to promote regional peace and stability, noting that sustainable peace was essential to addressing the humanitarian and economic consequences of conflicts, it added.

Foreign minister appreciates UN's role

Later in the day, the UN official also called on Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who appreciated OCHA's role in providing humanitarian assistance to people affected by disasters and conflicts across the globe, according to a separate statement issued by the Foreign Office.

According to the statement, Pakistan's foreign minister also praised OCHA's work during climate-induced disasters in the country.

“He expressed Pakistan’s commitment to continue supporting the vital work being carried out by OCHA, especially to address the humanitarian situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory,” said the statement, further adding that the UN official commended Pakistan's ongoing efforts to promote regional peace and stability, and appreciated its “invaluable contributions” to the UN over the years.