By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday called for further strengthening Pakistan’s partnership with the United Nations, particularly in sustainable development, climate change, poverty reduction, education and social protection.
Zardari made the remarks during a farewell meeting with UN Resident Coordinator in Pakistan Mohamed Yahya, who called on him at the Presidency in Islamabad. He said Pakistan highly valued its close and multifaceted cooperation with the United Nations.
Zardari reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to working with the UN Country Team to advance national development priorities and support efforts aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable communities.
The president appreciated the UN’s continued assistance to Pakistan’s polio eradication program. He also acknowledged its support for maternal, newborn and child health and nutrition services, including through the Benazir Nashonuma Program.
Zardari also praised the role of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in organizing international humanitarian assistance and supporting Pakistan during major climate-related disasters.
The president said Pakistan valued continued cooperation with OCHA in a way that strengthened national systems and supported government-led disaster response mechanisms. He said Pakistan remained committed to sustainable development and addressing the growing impact of climate change.
President Zardari appreciated UN-backed initiatives such as the Living Indus Initiative and Recharge Pakistan and expressed hope that the organization would continue helping Pakistan mobilize development and climate finance.
Zardari congratulated Yahya on his appointment and conveyed his best wishes for the new role. He assured him of Pakistan’s full support in carrying out his responsibilities. The meeting underscored the breadth of Pakistan-UN cooperation, covering development, humanitarian assistance, public health, climate resilience and social protection.
