Pakistan being affected by climatic changes, world should fully support it: Antonio Guterres

ISLAMABAD (92 News) - UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has said that Pakistan is being affected by the climatic changes and the world should fully support it.

Addressing a joint press conference with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday, he said that the flood is a natural calamity. "We will extend all possible cooperation to the Pakistan government and people," he maintained.

The UN Secretary General said Pakistan has little contribution to global emissions but it is one of the most vulnerable hotspots to climate change. He said the developed countries should drastically reduce emissions and support countries that need to invest in resilience and recovery as is the case in Pakistan.

Commending the generosity of Pakistani towards Afghan refugees, Antonio Guterres said Pakistan is a country in his heart. Expressing solidarity with the flood victims, the UN Secretary General said he would do his best to raise awareness in the international community about the current situation in Pakistan and to mobilize the full UN system in support of the country.

He also lauded the rescue and relief activities being carried out in the flood ravaged areas.

Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that it is impossible for Pakistan to deal with the flood situation alone. "Currently 33 million people are facing difficulties due to the floods. Cooperation and support from the United Nations is significant," he added.

He thanked the UN Secretary General for his message of empathy and support for the people of Pakistan. "The federal and provincial governments and all stakeholders, including the armed forces, are working together to provide relief and rescue to thirty three million affected people. Our rescue and relief efforts are in full gear and the people have been moved to safe places. Food and shelter are being offered but the challenge is huge," he added.

The prime minister also thanked different countries and organizations for extending support to Pakistan in this difficult hour.