Islamabad (Web Desk): On World Environment Day, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for greater commitment to environmental conservation, responsible management of natural resources, and collective efforts to build a more secure and sustainable future for coming generations in Pakistan.
In separate statements marking the occasion, the president and the premier reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to work closely with the international community on climate and environmental matters.
President Zardari said Pakistan would continue backing initiatives aimed at restoring ecosystems, expanding renewable energy, improving disaster readiness, and promoting development that can withstand the impacts of climate change.
He also urged citizens to play their part by conserving water, cutting down on waste, protecting forests, safeguarding wildlife and biodiversity, and supporting cleaner and greener energy solutions.
In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to combating climate change and protecting the environment, stressing the need for united action at both the national and international levels to address the growing environmental challenges facing the world.
In a message marking World Environment Day on June 5, the prime minister said Pakistan was joining nations across the globe in renewing its commitment to preserving the planet and creating a sustainable future for upcoming generations.
He noted that this year’s World Environment Day theme, “Climate Action,” highlighted the critical importance of global partnerships and collective efforts in tackling environmental degradation and the worsening impacts of climate change.
PM Shehbaz said that the increasing frequency and severity of environmental crises demonstrate the urgent need for coordinated international measures.
He pointed out that catastrophic floods, persistent drought conditions, record-breaking heatwaves, rapidly melting glaciers, declining water resources and rising pollution levels have made climate change an undeniable reality affecting communities worldwide.
The premier observed that Pakistan remains one of the countries most exposed to climate-related threats despite its minimal contribution to global carbon emissions.
PM Shehbaz said that the nation continues to bear substantial economic losses and human suffering as a result of climate-induced disasters and environmental damage.
Emphasizing the importance of shared responsibility, the prime minister said meaningful progress can only be achieved through cooperation among citizens, governments and the international community.
He reiterated the government’s resolve to expand renewable energy initiatives, restore forest cover, protect biodiversity, improve water conservation, curb pollution, promote climate-resilient farming practices and encourage environmentally friendly industries.
The prime minister added that several policies and programs are being pursued to rehabilitate natural ecosystems and enhance environmental sustainability throughout the country.
PM Shehbaz also highlighted the role of young people in shaping a greener and more secure future, saying their creativity, determination and innovative ideas would be vital in strengthening Pakistan’s climate resilience.
He added that equipping youth with education, technology and opportunities would help cultivate environmental awareness and support sustainable national development.
Describing environmental conservation as a collective national duty, PM Shehbaz called upon individuals, public institutions, businesses, farmers and all stakeholders linked to the agricultural sector to contribute actively towards protecting the country’s natural resources.
On the occasion of World Environment Day, the prime minister urged the public to adopt environmentally conscious habits and emphasized the importance of conserving water and energy, increasing tree plantation efforts and safeguarding wildlife.
Expressing optimism about the future, PM Shehbaz said that through joint efforts and a strong national commitment, Pakistan can move towards a cleaner environment, a healthier society and a more climate-resilient future for generations to come.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar stressed the importance of stronger international partnerships to confront the linked challenges of climate change, biodiversity depletion, and environmental deterioration.
He said environmental sustainability remains a central focus of the government’s agenda, adding that Pakistan is pursuing climate-resilient housing projects, speeding up the transition to clean energy sources, and encouraging sustainable and environmentally friendly construction practices across the country.