BRUSSELS/ISLAMABAD, (Unib Rashid) — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to disaster risk reduction, climate resilience and the protection of vulnerable communities, stressing that preventive measures are essential to safeguarding the country’s future.

In a message marking the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, the prime minister said that prevention was essential to ensuring protection in the years ahead. He reiterated the government’s resolve to build safer and more resilient communities across Pakistan.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the devastating impact of disasters, noting that a single day of calamity could undo years of development and progress. He also drew attention to the growing risks associated with climate change, underscoring the need for stronger preparedness and effective preventive strategies.

The prime minister said Pakistan was working to integrate disaster risk reduction into its climate and development plans. He emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships and improving coordinated efforts to protect communities most exposed to natural hazards and climate-related threats.

His message underscored the importance of shifting from reactive disaster response towards proactive risk management, including preparedness, resilience-building and long-term planning.

Pakistan remains vulnerable to a range of natural hazards, including floods, heatwaves and other climate-related emergencies. Strengthening disaster preparedness and incorporating risk reduction into development policies are therefore important for protecting lives, livelihoods and infrastructure.

The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction serves as a global reminder of the need to reduce disaster risks, strengthen resilience and promote collective action to protect communities from future emergencies.