ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has called for strengthening the partnership between Pakistan and the United Nations, focusing on areas such as sustainable development, climate change, poverty alleviation, education, and social protection.

According to Radio Pakistan, the President made these remarks during a farewell meeting with United Nations Resident Coordinator in Pakistan, Mohamed Yahya, in Islamabad. President Zardari stressed the significance of Pakistan’s cooperative relationship with the UN and reiterated the country’s commitment to working with the UN Country Team to advance national development priorities.

The President acknowledged the UN’s ongoing support for Pakistan’s efforts in polio eradication and maternal, newborn, and child health and nutrition services, which are also supported by the Benazir Nashonuma Programme. He also commended the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) for its role in coordinating international humanitarian assistance during climate-related disasters and emphasized the importance of continued engagement with OCHA to bolster government-led disaster response.

President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to sustainable development and addressing climate change. He highlighted initiatives like the Living Indus Initiative and Recharge Pakistan, expressing hope for continued UN support in mobilizing development and climate finance. He also expressed confidence in ongoing progress under the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023-27.

During the meeting, Mohamed Yahya informed the President of his new appointment as Assistant Secretary-General for OCHA, effective next month. President Zardari congratulated Yahya on his new role, extending best wishes and assuring him of Pakistan’s full support.