Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has said that Pakistan is one of the top ten countries most affected by climate change. He made the remarks at an event in Islamabad on Tuesday.
Iqbal highlighted that Pakistan contributes less than one per cent to global greenhouse gas emissions. Despite this, the country faces severe consequences from extreme weather events. The 2022 floods caused losses of nearly $30 billion, while the 2025 floods affected large areas of Punjab. These disasters increased poverty and food insecurity, particularly in underdeveloped regions.
“Floods and extreme weather are increasing development losses,” the minister said. He added that the government has introduced new guidelines and reforms to protect investments and improve climate resilience.
Iqbal warned that extreme heat and unpredictable weather are becoming the new normal for Pakistan. He noted that unchecked development in developed countries adds extra burdens on less developed nations.
The minister emphasized the need for financial and technical support from the international community. He also called for reforms in the global financial system to help countries like Pakistan manage climate-related risks. Clear guidelines are necessary to safeguard investments and ensure long-term development.
Officials say that Pakistan is actively working to strengthen its resilience against climate change. The government aims to protect communities, infrastructure, and the economy from increasingly frequent disasters.
Experts point out that countries contributing minimally to global emissions, like Pakistan, often suffer the most from climate crises. International cooperation, funding, and technology sharing are critical for improving climate resilience in vulnerable nations.
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Iqbal concluded that addressing climate change requires combined national efforts and global support. He urged developed nations to acknowledge their responsibility and assist Pakistan and similar countries in tackling the growing climate threat.
