Pakistan needs to prepare better for climate-related disasters and turn weather forecasts into timely action, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has said, warning that climate change and population growth pose serious risks to the country’s economy, food security and public finances.
Aurangzeb made the remarks during a meeting with outgoing National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Chairman Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik and incoming chairman Lt Gen Hasan Khattak, according to an official press release.
The discussions focused on strengthening disaster preparedness, improving climate forecasting and securing funding for projects that can help Pakistan manage growing climate risks.
The finance minister said climate change had also featured in discussions with international partners on the sidelines of the recent IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings, highlighting the issue’s growing importance for Pakistan’s economic outlook.
During the meeting, Lt Gen Malik briefed Aurangzeb on the country’s long-range climate forecasting system, which can provide outlooks up to 12 months ahead. He also outlined efforts to improve its capabilities.
Aurangzeb stressed that forecasts alone would not be enough. The information must reach vulnerable communities in time for them to prepare, making effective early-warning systems and coordination among relevant agencies essential.
The meeting discussed ways to connect long-range climate forecasts with shorter-term monitoring by the Pakistan Meteorological Department and other agencies. Better coordination could help authorities identify emerging threats earlier and give communities more time to respond.
The NDMA also presented its work on the Global Resilience Hub and the Next Generation Technologies initiative. Both aim to shift Pakistan away from responding to disasters after they strike towards reducing risks before they cause widespread damage.
The initiatives could also help Pakistan share its expertise, strengthen international cooperation and attract support for its disaster-management efforts.
Building local expertise was another priority. The finance minister called for clear institutional responsibilities, structured training and specialised technical staff to ensure that knowledge and skills remain within the country.
He said stronger institutions and continuity of expertise were vital to long-term climate adaptation, mitigation and disaster-risk management.
Financing remains a key part of the challenge. Aurangzeb stressed the need to use domestic resources effectively while mobilising support from international development partners for disaster preparedness and climate resilience.
He also called for investment in practical projects that can be implemented and deliver measurable results, rather than initiatives that remain limited to planning.
The meeting concluded with Aurangzeb acknowledging Lt Gen Malik’s contributions during his tenure and stressing the importance of continuity in the country’s disaster-management framework. He also wished Lt Gen Khattak well as he prepares to take charge of the NDMA.
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