Islamabad: Pakistan’s commitment to climate-resilient economic growth was the focus of a keynote address by H.E. Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce, at the Sustainable Development Conference 2025. The event, organized by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), featured a session titled “Rewiring Economic and Fiscal Planning for Climate Prosperity,” where Mr. Khan served as the Chief Guest.

Mr. Khan highlighted the urgent economic implications of climate change, describing it as the “defining economic and fiscal reality of our time.” He emphasized Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change, despite its minimal role in global emissions, and referenced the severe floods that have posed a significant national economic challenge.

The Coordinator outlined the nation’s climate-responsive Federal Budget, which incorporates climate considerations into key sectors for the first time. Mr. Khan detailed initiatives aimed at expanding renewable energy, reducing fossil fuel dependence, and enhancing national resilience against climate shocks. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to global climate targets and the necessity of sustained investment in adaptation and mitigation efforts.

During the conference, Mr. Khan toured the exhibition area, engaging with innovators and organizations dedicated to sustainable technologies. He praised their contributions to Pakistan’s green transition and explored ways to enhance climate-resilient practices across industries and infrastructure.

The discussions at the conference underscored Pakistan’s dedication to integrating climate resilience and sustainability into its economic planning. Mr. Khan stressed the importance of policy innovation and collective action from government, private sector, and civil society in addressing climate change. He concluded that Pakistan’s future prosperity depends on developing a green, inclusive economy that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change.