Karachi: President Asif Ali Zardari has urged for a significant increase in Pakistan’s national forest cover as part of efforts to combat the adverse impacts of climate change and global warming. This appeal was made during his participation in the annual Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign at Bilawal House, where he planted a Neem sapling.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, President Zardari highlighted the critical environmental challenges facing Pakistan, one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change. He emphasized the multiple benefits of Neem trees, which contribute to cleaner air, provide cool shade, and act as natural mosquito repellents, advocating for their widespread planting across the nation.

Reflecting on his tenure as the Minister for Climate during Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed’s first term as Prime Minister, Zardari recalled initiating a significant tree plantation campaign focused on Neem trees. He stressed the increasing necessity for such initiatives in light of escalating temperatures across Pakistan.

The President called on all citizens, especially the youth and civil society, to actively engage in tree planting activities during the Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign to foster a healthier environment. He also noted the successful mangrove restoration projects in Sindh, which have seen the planting of mangroves over millions of acres, further contributing to the country’s environmental sustainability efforts.