ISLAMABAD, Aug. 18 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari said on Tuesday that the country would enhance tree plantation to build a greener and more climate-resilient Pakistan.
In his message on the launch of Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign 2026, Zardari said forests are among Pakistan's most valuable natural assets, contributing to biodiversity conservation, improved air quality, prevention of land degradation and climate change mitigation and adaptation.
He said Pakistan remains committed to achieving the sustainable development goals and fulfilling its international commitments.
Highlighting ongoing national initiatives, including the Upscaling Green Pakistan Program, mangrove ecosystem restoration, sustainable forest management and community-based conservation efforts, Zardari said such initiatives are helping expand tree cover, protect biodiversity, improve livelihoods and strengthen resilience to climate change.
He stressed that efforts must focus not only on planting trees but also on protecting existing forests and ensuring the survival and growth of newly planted saplings.
Under the Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign 2026, Pakistan aims to plant over 20 million saplings across the country. ■
