Spokesman Report
Islamabad: The Canadian Minister for International Development, Mr Harjit Singh Sajjan, called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif today. The Prime Minister thanked Mr. Singh for his visit during such trying times when Pakistan was battling the effects of devastating floods, that caused extensive damage and suffering. The Prime Minister apprised him that over 1300 lives had been lost; over 33 million people displaced; over four million acres of crops destroyed; while 800,000 livestock had perished, severely impacting livelihood of families. Damages ran into tens of billions of dollars. The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for Canadian solidarity and assistance for rescue and relief efforts. The Prime Minister underscored that Pakistan contributed less than 1% to global carbon emissions, but was among the most vulnerable countries to effects of climate change, as was evident from recent climate events and the unprecedented floods. Highlighting the government’s engagement with the rescue and relief efforts, the Prime Minister emphasized that continued international support, solidarity, and assistance will be required for the rehabilitation and reconstruction phase as well. The Prime Minister also expressed his appreciation to the Canadian Government for assistance in projects relating to women’s economic empowerment, sustainable economic growth and health sectors. The Prime Minister noted that going forward Pakistan will pursue build back better strategy. Pakistan required experts and technical assistance for rebuilding climate-resilient infrastructure that can stand the disastrous effects of natural calamities in future. Minister Harjit Singh Sajjan expressed condolences for the flood victims and stated that the Canadian Government would support Pakistan to help mitigate disastrous impacts of these floods and climate change