United Nations and Pakistan organize International Conference on Climate Change and Development

On 21–22 October 2010, the Ministry of Environment of Pakistan, in collaboration with One UN Joint Programme on Environment, held an International Conference on Climate Change and Development in Islamabad, Pakistan. The conference was meant to take stock of the effects of climate change in the South Asian region, with a focus on Pakistan.

The conference brought together over 600 participants who focused on how to ensure access to technology and adequate financing to mainstream climate change-related concerns into the development process. A comprehensive national climate change strategy and action framework will facilitate appropriate responses and actions in mitigation and adaptation, allowing the mainstreaming of climate change into broader development efforts.

The main objectives of the Conference included:

  • assisting policy makers in coherently mainstreaming climate change concerns in the overall development process
  • deliberating on the science and policy in managing risks and impacts of climate change and to ensure water, food and energy security
  • focusing on the means of implementation to ensure access to technology and adequate financing to achieve sustainable development in developing countries
  • identifying and promoting avenues for regional and multilateral cooperation to ensure climate change-responsive development.

The overall objective was to gather a galaxy of experts on the subject around the world to ponder on the science and policy in managing risks and impacts of Climate Change. The main focus of the conference remained on the means of implementation to ensure access to technology and adequate financing to mainstream climate change related concerns in the development process.

» UNDP press release

 

Additional 5 million euros for Pakistan disaster relief

Responding to a new international appeal by the United Nations, the Netherlands is providing an additional 5 million euros for victims of the disastrous flooding in Pakistan. The Dutch contribution, earmarked for emergency relief and initial reconstruction, will be managed by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).