ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Climate Change Dr. Musadik Malik has expressed serious concern over the growing impact of climate change on developing countries, stating that poorer nations are bearing a disproportionate share of the consequences of rising global temperatures.
Addressing a conference organized by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) in Islamabad, the federal minister highlighted the economic inequalities that make it increasingly difficult for developing countries to respond effectively to environmental challenges.
Dr. Malik pointed out that wealthy nations have access to financial resources at considerably lower borrowing costs, while less developed economies face higher interest rates.
According to the minister, developed countries can obtain financing at an interest rate of approximately 2.3 percent, whereas poorer nations face rates of around 5 percent. He argued that this financial imbalance places an additional burden on countries already struggling with the effects of climate change.
Discussing the wider consequences of international conflicts, Dr. Malik noted that wars taking place in one region often create economic difficulties for populations elsewhere.
He explained that fluctuations in global oil prices and other economic disruptions frequently affect countries that are not directly involved in such conflicts.
The federal minister emphasized the need for Pakistan to strengthen its ability to withstand climate-related disasters, particularly recurring floods.
He said Pakistan must develop a comprehensive climate resilience framework capable of protecting vulnerable communities from future environmental emergencies.
Dr. Malik stressed that building stronger protective systems and improving preparedness would be essential to reducing the risks faced by communities exposed to flooding and other natural disasters.
Highlighting Pakistan’s geographical and economic vulnerabilities, the minister said the country faces additional challenges because of its downstream location and limited development resources.
He questioned whether communities living in geographically vulnerable regions should be denied their fundamental rights simply because they lack the economic or political influence of wealthier nations.
The minister argued that ignoring the concerns of developing countries would reinforce a global system in which powerful nations dominate decision-making while weaker states continue to suffer the consequences.
Dr. Musadik Malik called attention to the need for greater fairness in international climate policies, emphasizing that the rights and interests of vulnerable nations must be recognized when addressing the global environmental crisis.