Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Musadik Malik, delivered the Chief Guest address at a conference organized by the Institute of Global Health and Development at Aga Khan University, Karachi. The conference, titled "Climate Change and the Built Environment: Promoting Resilience and Adaptation in Low-Income Settings,” brought together experts, professionals, and policymakers to discuss climate-aware development and sustainable urban planning.
Addressing the participants, Dr. Musadik Malik emphasized the urgent need to advance climate resilience and environmental stewardship across all sectors. He underscored that the Government of Pakistan is fully cognizant of the escalating risks posed by climate change, and is actively preparing to confront its human, environmental, and infrastructural impacts.
The Minister informed the audience that a comprehensive 300-day national plan has been formulated on the instructions of the Prime Minister to prepare for the 2026 monsoon season. He highlighted that the coming 300 days are critical for rebuilding what has been damaged during this year’s floods and for implementing measures necessary to reduce the severity of future natural disasters.
He further explained that once this initial phase of preparedness and restoration is complete, Phase II will focus on long-term adaptation strategies expanding and strengthening initiatives already underway. This phased approach, he said, is based on a clear vision “Fix, Grow, and Build.”
Dr. Malik stressed the importance of active participation from the provinces and emphasized that meaningful climate resilience can only be achieved through coordination between federal and provincial governments, as well as local institutions and community-based organizations.
Stressing upon Pakistan’s disproportionate vulnerability, the Minister noted that the country contributes less than 1% to global greenhouse gas emissions yet remains among the most climate-affected nations in the world. In contrast, ten countries account for more than 70% of global emissions. He urged the international community to recognize its responsibility and work collectively toward climate justice, financing, and transformative global action.
The Minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to advancing climate-resilient development and called upon global partners, development institutions, and local stakeholders to collaborate in building a sustainable and secure future for vulnerable communities.
