Islamabad: The Coordinator to the Prime Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Romina Khurshid Alam, has called for global efforts to address the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities, particularly in Pakistan. Alam noted the disproportionate effects on mental health experienced by women and adolescent girls due to extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and droughts. Her comments came during a meeting with Kjell Magne Bondevik, the former Prime Minister of Norway.

According to a statement by Press Information Department, Alam emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to learning from international experiences in tackling climate challenges, with a focus on transitioning to green energy. She highlighted the importance of international cooperation to combat human rights abuses, specifically mentioning violations in Kashmir. Alam also brought attention to the disastrous 2022 floods, which led to significant displacement and health issues, including skin diseases in Balochistan.

Secretary of MoCC, Aisha Humera Moriani, addressed the challenges of accessing climate finance, noting the insufficiency of current investments to meet immediate rehabilitation needs. Moriani stressed that funds should be used for GDP growth rather than recovery from climate disasters. She also mentioned Pakistan’s pursuit of water desalination and clean energy technologies.

Kjell Magne Bondevik expressed Norway’s readiness to assist Pakistan in mitigating climate change impacts, offering support in the transition to green energy. He pointed to Norway’s success with electric vehicles as a model for Pakistan to consider. The meeting was also attended by Additional Secretary Hammad Shamimi and Joint Secretary Muhammad Faroque of MoCC. In a gesture of goodwill, Alam presented souvenirs and Pakistani-made footballs to the Norwegian delegation.