ISLAMABAD, June 17 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed the country's commitment to addressing land degradation, desertification and drought, calling for collective action to protect and restore natural resources.
In his message on the occasion of the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, the prime minister said Pakistan joined the international community in renewing efforts to tackle the growing environmental challenges posed by land degradation and climate change.
Highlighting measures taken by Pakistan, the prime minister said the country is pursuing a comprehensive strategy focused on land restoration, sustainable rangeland management, afforestation, ecosystem restoration and drought mitigation.
"Pakistan's vast rangelands are among the country's most valuable natural assets, supporting livestock-based livelihoods, strengthening the rural economy, conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance," Sharif added.
He noted that Pakistan remains among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, facing challenges such as rising temperatures, prolonged dry spells, water scarcity and land degradation, all of which threaten agricultural productivity and food security.
The premier emphasized that collective global efforts, including afforestation and environmental conservation initiatives, are essential to building resilience against climate change and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the coming generations. ■
