PM Shehbaz calls for grant-based climate finance, increased adaptation funds at COP31

On Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged for grant-based climate financing and a substantial boost to funds dedicated to resilience and adaptation during a high-level session of COP31 held in Antalya, Turkey. Addressing the globe's most vulnerable nations, he emphasized the urgent need for financial aid that doesn't exacerbate their debt problems.

In Antalya, Shehbaz championed enhanced international unity towards countries predominantly impacted by climate change, especially developing nations. "When climatic calamities arise, impoverished nations require rapid assistance and funding that doesn't deepen their debt. We advocate grant-based financing, including public-private ventures, coupled with a significant rise in resilience and adaptation funds, vital for the survival of ailing economies," he underscored.

"Climate change transcends borders; no nation can confront it alone," he added. Reflecting on Pakistan's catastrophic 2022 floods, Shehbaz highlighted how a third of the nation was submerged, crops destroyed, and millions of acres of land submerged. He reported that the floods impacted 33 million people, caused over 1,700 fatalities, and resulted in economic damages surpassing $30 billion.

The prime minister also narrated a personal story of a man preparing for his wedding when floodwaters engulfed his home, transforming a joyful occasion into tragedy. He emphasized that this incident mirrored the plight of millions in Pakistan and developing countries suffering due to climate-related disasters. "In 2010, at the UN, I cautioned that what befell Pakistan wouldn't remain confined to Pakistan.

Alas, that warning has sadly materialized. The future we feared has become the present we're living," he lamented. Shehbaz recognized Turkey's support during Pakistan's devastating floods in 2010 and 2022. He also highlighted water shouldn't be utilized as a weapon, asserting no country should risk the lives and livelihoods of downstream populations.

"Water should never be weaponized. No nation should be permitted to jeopardize the lives and livelihoods of people living downstream. Water-sharing agreements must be observed in full compliance," he asserted. Meanwhile, Shehbaz met Sudanese President Abdel Fattah al-Burhan independently during COP31. He reiterated Pakistan's enduring bond with Sudan and pledged support for the country's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.

They discussed enhancing bilateral ties across various areas of mutual benefit and shared perspectives on climate change, underscoring the necessity for heightened international collaboration to tackle its impact, particularly on developing nations. Both leaders affirmed their dedication to maintaining close coordination at international forums.