Today, we mark a day that matters deeply to Pakistan. We have lived through floods, earthquakes, heatwaves and droughts. We know the cost of disasters in lives, homes and hopes. We have learnt that we must prepare, not simply respond. For too long, we waited for disasters to strike and then rushed to help. That is no longer enough.
Pakistan is changing how it faces disasters. Pakistan’s national disaster management system has accomplished remarkable work, using artificial intelligence, satellites and real-time data to see dangers coming. It sends early warnings to communities and helps people move to safety before the water rises.
Communities and local governments are our first line of defence. No federal office can save a village faster than its own people. Local administrations and community volunteers are often the first to respond. They know the land and they know the people. I call upon national and global organisations to make disaster preparedness a core part of their work. Pakistan’s model can help the world.
I call upon the world to regionalise disaster risk reduction. Regions should work together on the basis of shared risks. Early warnings should cross borders instantly. We need a global water resilience programme. We need a global cryosphere protection initiative. We need a global food security and climate adaptation fund. We need stronger laws to protect our environment. We also need greater international cooperation on shared rivers and shared risks.
I have seen the courage of our people. I have seen communities rebuild. I have seen volunteers risk their lives for strangers. I have seen scientists work day and night to save lives. That is why I am hopeful. I believe Pakistan can be a leader, not just a victim, in the fight against climate disasters.
Let us act now. Let us act together. Let us build a Pakistan that is ready.
Pakistan is resilient. Pakistan will rise.
