Brussels (National Times) Federal Minister for Climate Change, Dr. Musadik Malik, delivered a compelling keynote address at a high-level policy briefing titled “From Risk to Resilience: Helping People and Firms in South Asia Adapt to Climate Change,” co-hosted by the European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) and the Office of the Chief Economist for South Asia at the World Bank Group.

Speaking to an audience of climate experts, policymakers, and development stakeholders, Dr. Malik underscored Pakistan’s acute vulnerability to climate change, citing the devastating 2022 floods as a stark reminder of the urgent need for global cooperation on climate adaptation. He emphasized the importance of scaling up adaptation financing, particularly for countries like Pakistan that are disproportionately impacted despite contributing minimally to global emissions.

Highlighting water as a critical area of concern, the Minister called for the depoliticisation of water governance and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to cooperative frameworks such as the Indus Waters Treaty—while warning against its unilateral disruption.

Dr. Malik presented Pakistan’s vision for climate resilience, which includes the development of green industrial clusters, investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, the establishment of shock-responsive social protection systems, the adoption of nature-based solutions, and the transfer of innovation-driven green technologies.

The address marked Pakistan’s growing role in global climate discourse and reiterated its dedication to fostering regional and international partnerships for a more sustainable and secure future in South Asia.