NEW YORK: Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has advocated for a fairer global financial system to support developing nations, emphasizing the need for stronger international cooperation, climate justice, and reforms to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Speaking at the United Nations Economic and Social Council’s High-Level Segment, he reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to sustainable development and highlighted the country’s vulnerabilities to climate change.

According to Radio Pakistan, Minister Iqbal noted that Pakistan’s recent economic reforms have restored macroeconomic stability and boosted confidence in the economy. He underscored the need for climate resilience, citing the devastating floods of 2022 and 2025 as evidence of Pakistan’s susceptibility to climate-related challenges. The Minister expressed Pakistan’s dedication to ecosystem restoration, water security, clean energy, and climate-resilient development.

Iqbal also addressed the Indus Waters Treaty, warning that its unilateral suspension jeopardizes the water security and livelihoods of 240 million Pakistanis and violates international treaty obligations. He called for a renewed global partnership and urged reforms to the international financial architecture, improved access to concessional finance, fulfillment of climate finance commitments, and innovative financing mechanisms to support developing countries in building resilience.