Federal Minister Musadik Malik has revealed that Pakistan requires between $100 billion and $200 billion in climate financing to effectively combat the impacts of climate change. He also criticized the global community for the lack of climate justice, noting that countries with higher pollution levels receive more funding.
The minister shared these insights during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change, chaired by Senator Sherry Rehman at Parliament House. The session focused on the country’s climate action plans and the effects of recent budget cuts on environmental programs.
During his briefing, Malik announced that the Ministry of Climate Change plans to establish a green university focused on climate research. He also shared that seven Pakistani companies will be taken to Spain to showcase children’s green projects to international funders for potential financial support.
He pointed out that Pakistan contributes 37% less carbon dioxide emissions compared to other countries, yet receives far less in climate funding. “This is a clear example of global hypocrisy,” he said, adding that he continues to raise this issue on international platforms.
So far, Pakistan has received only $300 million in climate financing—far below the actual requirement. Malik emphasized that the government is prioritizing the completion of old projects before launching new ones to ensure better resource management.
Meanwhile, Senator Sherry Rehman expressed concern over budget cuts, especially when Pakistan ranks among the countries most affected by climate change. Officials also briefed the committee on the Green Pakistan Program, stating that 2.23 billion trees have been planted since 2016, but only 39% of the required budget was released—making it difficult to meet the goal of 3.29 billion trees.