Aurangzeb highlights priorities for climate implementation at UNGA

Finance Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Aurangzeb, addressed the Climate Implementation Bridge (BRIDGE) event in New York, stressing the necessity for climate commitments to result in tangible benefits for communities. During the fourth day of his official visit to the United Nations General Assembly, Aurangzeb, part of Pakistan's delegation led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, identified three crucial elements for successful climate implementation: a robust policy framework, accessible financing, and the ability to execute projects domestically.

He praised Pakistan's advancements in refining its climate policy and its endeavors to gather funds through domestic sources, global financial institutions, capital markets, and climate funds. Aurangzeb pointed out that Pakistan seeks assistance from the US ExIm program for its Boeing 787 airplane acquisitions and refinery improvements.

He noted that obstacles like institutional fragmentation and a scarcity of viable projects continue to impede efficient execution. Aurangzeb pointed out that despite generous pledges following the 2022 floods, some international support has remained untapped, emphasizing the need for suitable projects and a stronger implementation capacity at the country level.

Welcoming Pakistan's involvement in BRIDGE, Aurangzeb encouraged partners to reach an agreement on practical "no-regret" choices that can move the initiative from dialogue to action. He stressed the importance of converting climate commitments into tangible projects and quantifiable outcomes that can provide real advantages to communities.

Aurangzeb's interactions during the UNGA High-Level Week have highlighted Pakistan's ongoing dedication to enhancing climate resilience, sourcing resources for climate action, and establishing effective international partnerships to aid implementation on the ground.