Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar stressed the urgent execution of the pledged $100 billion for climate finance during his address at the 28th Conference of Parties of the United Nations (COP28).
He emphasized that such financing should not hinder development or increase the existing debt burden of developing nations. Kakar urged developed countries to lead in enhancing global mitigation efforts in line with their economic capacity and historical responsibility, supporting developing nations in the process.
Calling for global resilience, the prime minister advocated for a comprehensive framework on adaptation with specific targets, indicators, and regular progress monitoring. He asserted that at least half of the climate finance should be dedicated to adaptation measures. Kakar expressed optimism for tangible actions at COP28, emphasizing that expectations were high but not unrealistic.
Highlighting Pakistan’s commitment, Kakar mentioned the nation’s revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) at COP26, targeting a 60% reduction in projected emissions by 2030. He outlined Pakistan’s efforts, including presenting a national adaptation plan, launching the Living Indus Initiative, and contributing to the establishment of a global loss and damage fund. Kakar underscored the importance of providing means of implementation, such as climate finance, capacity-building, and technology, to help developing countries address climate challenges.
Emphasizing climate justice, the prime minister insisted on enabling developing countries to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while contributing to climate objectives. He called for sufficient, additional, and predictable grant-based climate finance from developed countries. Kakar is leading the Pakistani delegation at COP28, with key ministers participating in the high-level segment and the World Climate Action Summit on December 1 and 2.
