The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution expressing support for Pakistan and strengthening of emergency relief, rehabilitation, reconstruction and prevention in the wake of the recent devastating floods.

The resolution was proposed by Pakistan and cosponsored by 151 countries to demonstrate solidarity with millions of people in Pakistan affected by the recent devastating floods.

While introducing the resolution, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative at UN Munir Akram highlighted that Pakistan is one of the most climate vulnerable countries in the world, even though our carbon emissions are less than 1 percent of global emissions.

He also expressed Pakistan’s gratitude to all those who have provided assistance, and referred to the upscaled Flash Appeal and the preparation of a Plan for Reconstruction with resilience.

He asked for continuous support to Pakistan on ground of solidarity and climate justice.

The President of General Assembly expressed solidarity with the people of Pakistan and reminded that “climate catastrophe” is still unfolding in Pakistan, which he called an “epic tragedy.

The UN Secretary General Anttonio Guterres recalled his recent visit to Pakistan and graphically described the disaster, and courage of Pakistani people.

He said massive needs require massive support.

Citing “climate injustice”, the Secretary-General said that Pakistan is paying a “supersized price” for a climate emergency it did relatively little to create.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed adoption of a resolution by the UN General Assembly in support of reconstruction efforts in Pakistan.

In a tweet on Saturday, he said the world should respond vigorously to the UN revised aid appeal and provide access to climate finance and debt relief to Pakistan. He stressed these actions are critical at this stage.

Source: Radio Pakistan