Islamabad: On the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to global initiatives aimed at reducing disaster risk, vulnerability, and socio-economic losses. The country emphasizes the critical importance of these efforts for both humanitarian reasons and achieving the goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
According to Press Information Department, Pakistan has faced significant challenges from climate-induced disasters, including floods, glacial melt, droughts, heatwaves, and water stress. These events, exacerbated by recent intense monsoon rains, have underscored the disproportionate climate burden shouldered by Pakistan, a nation contributing less than one percent to global greenhouse gas emissions.
The government’s current focus includes proactive, technology-driven, and inclusive disaster risk management strategies. Under the National Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy 2025-2030, a multi-hazard approach is being adopted to emphasize prevention, preparedness, and resilience-building at various levels. Efforts include establishing robust national systems and introducing shock-responsive social protection initiatives.
Aligning with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, Pakistan’s policies aim to strengthen early warning systems, incorporate risk reduction into development planning, and leverage technology and innovation to anticipate and manage emerging risks. Managing disaster risks in shared river basins is seen as a transboundary challenge that requires cooperation among riparian states, adherence to international law, and respect for existing treaties and agreements.
Pakistan has called on the international community to enhance cooperation, technology transfer, and financing mechanisms to help developing countries mitigate and adapt to the accelerating impacts of climate change. The nation stands in solidarity with global partners, reaffirming a collective responsibility to build a safer, more resilient, and sustainable world.