Pakistan needs urgent action to adapt to climate change: US CG

LAHORE: US Consul General in Lahore Kristin K. Hawkins has said that Pakistan has been among the top 10 most vulnerable countries in the climate risk index for the last 20 years.

Immediate action is needed to adapt to climate change, she said during her second visit to Multan. She emphasized Pakistan's commitment to addressing key challenges related to climate change through the "Green Alliance" framework to address food security and energy challenges. "US efforts to support will continue," she maintained.

Kristin K. Hawkins inaugurated the Multan Electric Power Company (Mepco) Customer Facilitation Center, as part of the US government's ongoing assistance to Pakistan's energy sector. "The US has helped install more than 100,000 smart meters, which improve electricity efficiency for the residents of Multan. USAID's partnership with Mepco has delivered outstanding results. We have introduced new methods and technologies to improve customer service and increase revenue," she said.

Kristin K. Hawkins also visited a US-aided fruit processing plant in Multan. After the visit, the US Consul General emphasized that through modern tools, techniques and technology, "we will continue to explore additional opportunities to promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve productivity, and reduce the environmental impact of the agricultural sector." She said these innovations helped Pakistani farmers, created jobs, lowered costs, reduced pollution and strengthened Pakistan's climate resilience.

"The United States has provided $21 million through the "Pakistan Agricultural Development Project" to train 63,000 farmers on modern agricultural methods. This US support for Pakistan is part of the Green Alliance" framework. Through the "Green Alliance," the United States and Pakistan are working together to increase agricultural production and farmers' incomes, while also conserving soil and water resources. Together, through projects and partnerships like these, we can create a brighter and more prosperous future for the people of Pakistan," she maintained.