ISLAMABAD, Jan 13 (Alliance News): Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister for Climate Change, highlighted the severe impacts of climate change on Pakistan during a meeting with former Norwegian Prime Minister, Kjell Magne Bondevik, on Monday.
Alam emphasized that extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and droughts have worsened mental health issues, particularly among women and adolescent girls.
She spoke of Pakistan’s commitment to learn from global experiences in tackling climate challenges, especially the transition to green energy.
Expressing concern about ongoing human rights violations, including in Kashmir, Alam also discussed the immense consequences of the 2022 floods, which displaced large populations in Sindh and beyond, causing widespread social, psychological, and health challenges.
“We are ranked fifth in vulnerability to climate change, and we are seeking support for climate diplomacy that can benefit all vulnerable countries,” Alam stated, emphasizing Pakistan’s resilient efforts to combat climate issues despite financial challenges.
Aisha Humera Moriani, Secretary of MoCC, spoke about the difficulty of accessing climate finance, arguing that the funds should be directed toward Pakistan’s GDP growth rather than climate disaster recovery. Moriani also highlighted the country’s pursuit of water desalination technologies and clean energy incentives.
In response, Bondevik offered Norway’s support in green energy transitions, citing Norway’s success with electric vehicles (EVs) as an example.
The meeting concluded with Alam presenting souvenirs and Pakistani-made footballs to the Norwegian delegation in a gesture of goodwill.