Islamabad, 03 Dec 2023: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has commended the United Arab Emirates for its groundbreaking $30 billion climate fund initiative, designed to combat the effects of climate change, especially in the Global South. The Prime Minister highlighted the fund’s importance in an exclusive interview with Aletihad, emphasizing its role in addressing a global challenge.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Prime Minister Kakar underscored the universality of climate change as a common challenge, affecting all nations regardless of size. He viewed climate change not only as a national security issue for Pakistan but also as a concern for the global community.

The Prime Minister described the UAE’s climate fund initiative as promising, noting its potential to translate into tangible projects, with Pakistan positioned to be one of the beneficiaries. He called for action from vulnerable nations and major emitters, urging collaborative dialogue to collectively address climate change.

Emphasizing the strong partnership between the UAE and Pakistan in climate mitigation, adaptation, and finance, Kakar expressed optimism for ongoing collaboration. He highlighted the strategic focus of new investments in addressing the social and economic dimensions of climate change.

Discussing the recently-signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the two countries, the Prime Minister viewed them as the start of a new chapter in bilateral cooperation. He anticipated an increase in joint projects aimed at achieving concrete, result-oriented outcomes in the coming decades.

Kakar also pointed out the significant contributions that Pakistan’s youthful population, proficient in major global languages, can make across various sectors. He acknowledged the critical role of the 1.7 million-strong Pakistani diaspora in the UAE in strengthening bilateral ties.

The Prime Minister identified agriculture, food security, mining, IT, and industry and manufacturing as key areas for joint projects. He highlighted Pakistan’s demographic advantage, with 65% of its 14 million population under the age of 25, as a vital asset for collaborative initiatives.

In concluding his interview, Kakar congratulated President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and the UAE government for hosting COP28, praising it as a demonstration of the UAE’s commitment to addressing climate change.