Riyadh Summit Highlights Pakistan’s Climate Concerns
RIYADH (October 28, 2025): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for stronger global cooperation and technology sharing between the Global North and South to effectively combat the growing threat of climate change. Speaking at a high-level roundtable discussion titled “Is Humanity Heading in the Right Direction?” during the 9th Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, the premier emphasized that tackling climate challenges requires unity, innovation, and shared responsibility.
Shared Prosperity Through Collaboration
Addressing world leaders and investors, PM Sharif underscored the importance of collective prosperity built on mutual cooperation. He stressed that humanity must move forward together, sharing resources, technologies, and opportunities to ensure equitable progress. The Prime Minister noted that countries like Pakistan, despite contributing minimally to global carbon emissions, are facing severe consequences of environmental degradation.
He said, “If humanity is to progress, we must walk together—sharing our knowledge, technology, and compassion. Only then can we overcome the existential threat of climate change.”
Rejecting Debt Dependency and Promoting Resilience
PM Sharif cautioned against the overreliance on loans for climate recovery, stating that constant borrowing weakens national economies. Instead, he advocated for cooperative and sustainable financial mechanisms that enable developing countries to grow despite environmental challenges.
The Prime Minister also highlighted Pakistan’s recent climate disasters, including the devastating 2022 floods that caused losses exceeding $130 billion and the recent 2025 floods that continue to affect millions. He urged the international community to respond with empathy and tangible support for vulnerable nations.
Empowering Youth and Embracing Technology
The Prime Minister praised Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision for societal transformation and shared Pakistan’s progress in digitalization and industrial reforms. With 60% of Pakistan’s population under 30, Sharif emphasized that this youth demographic is both a challenge and an opportunity. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing in AI, IT, and technology infrastructure, preparing its youth for the future economy.
PM Sharif also called for open dialogue with developed nations on the ethical and productive use of artificial intelligence, ensuring that technological advancements benefit all, not just a few.
A Message of Resilience and Hope
In a personal reflection, the Prime Minister shared how his father rebuilt a nationalized steel plant in 1972, symbolizing resilience and determination—values that he believes must guide humanity in overcoming today’s global crises.
He concluded by urging the world to act with unity, compassion, and shared purpose: “This planet belongs to all of us. We must save it—together.”
