ISLAMABAD: United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. Tom Fletcher, met with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister House, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between Pakistan and the United Nations in addressing global humanitarian challenges.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Adviser to the Prime Minister Dr. Syed Tauqir Shah, Chairman National Disaster Management Authority Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, and other senior officials. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the efforts of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in managing complex emergencies worldwide and acknowledged the organization’s crucial support during Pakistan’s 2022 floods.

Prime Minister Sharif observed that Pakistan has significantly improved its disaster response capabilities but emphasized the need for enhanced preparedness and stronger cooperation at multiple levels due to the rising occurrence of climate-related disasters. Mr. Fletcher appreciated the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and OCHA, commending the Prime Minister’s dedication to fostering regional peace, which he deemed vital for addressing humanitarian and economic issues arising from conflicts.

During the discussion, Mr. Fletcher updated the Prime Minister on the humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the obstacles OCHA faces in delivering necessary aid. He also recognized Pakistan’s ongoing support for OCHA’s relief efforts in Afghanistan. The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to working with the United Nations to boost global humanitarian collaboration and disaster readiness, aiming to aid vulnerable communities affected by conflicts and natural calamities.