PESHAWAR -Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, has said that climate change poses “critical threat” to Pakistan, noting how the country has already suffered $30 billion in damages due to environmental disasters.
Speaking at the Asia Energy Transition Summit 2024 at Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), Ahsa. Iqbal stated that the government is committed to improving the energy sector, with a special focus on achieving green energy solutions in Pakistan. He highlighted that Pakistan’s struggle with prolonged load-shedding which are being addressed through energy projects launched under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
During his speech, Iqbal underscored the significance of climate change, identifying it as a key challenge for Pakistan. He stressed that developing green energy solutions is a priority to meet the country’s growing energy needs. “Our government has initiated several projects focusing on hydropower and environmentally friendly coal technologies,” he said, adding that the transition to renewable energy is essential for ensuring Pakistan’s sustainable economic development.
Ahsan Iqbal also discussed the broader context of Asia’s role in global energy consumption, stating that the region accounts for half the world’s population and a significant share of the global economy. The minister further explained that Asia’s transition to cleaner energy would lead to significant economic gains.
He highlighted that green energy solutions in Pakistan are part of a broader strategy to ensure long-term energy security, emphasizing the government’s ambition to provide clean, affordable energy for all citizens.
