New York: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, urging enhanced global cooperation, climate justice, and financial system reforms at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development 2026.

According to Press Information Department, the minister addressed the United Nations Economic and Social Council, highlighting global challenges such as economic shocks, climate disasters, geopolitical tensions, and rising debt burdens that impede progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with only five years remaining until 2030.

Professor Iqbal emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to the SDGs through its national plan, URAAN Pakistan, which aims to boost economic growth, create jobs, leverage technology, enhance climate resilience, ensure energy security, and promote inclusive development. He noted that recent economic reforms have stabilized Pakistan’s economy and boosted confidence.

He also pointed out Pakistan’s climate change vulnerabilities, referencing the severe floods of 2022 and 2025, which highlighted the need for climate resilience. He stressed Pakistan’s efforts in ecosystem restoration, water security, clean energy, and climate-resilient development. He raised concerns about the Indus Waters Treaty’s suspension, which threatens water security for 240 million Pakistanis and international treaty obligations.

Professor Iqbal called for a renewed global partnership, seeking reforms in the international financial architecture, improved access to concessional finance, fulfillment of climate finance commitments, and innovative financing for resilience-building in developing countries. He concluded by emphasizing the necessity of urgent, collective action and stronger international solidarity to achieve the SDGs.