President Asif Ali Zardari has emphasised the need to further strengthen Pakistan’s partnership with the United Nations, particularly in sustainable development, climate change, poverty alleviation, education, and social protection.

He was talking to United Nations Resident Coordinator in Pakistan Mohamed Yahya, who paid a farewell call on him in Islamabad today [Wednesday].

Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan highly values its close and multifaceted cooperation with the UN and reaffirmed the commitment to working with the UN Country Team in advancing national development priorities.

He appreciated the UN's sustained support for Pakistan's polio eradication efforts as well as maternal, newborn, and child health and nutrition services, including through the Benazir Nashonuma Programme.

The President appreciated OCHA's role in coordinating international humanitarian assistance and supporting Pakistan during major climate-related disasters. He said Pakistan values continued engagement with OCHA in a manner that supports national systems and reinforces government-led disaster response.

Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan remains committed to sustainable development and addressing the adverse impacts of climate change. He appreciated initiatives including the Living Indus Initiative and Recharge Pakistan and expressed the hope that the UN would continue supporting Pakistan's efforts to mobilise development and climate finance. He also expressed confidence that Pakistan and the UN would continue making progress under the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023-27.

Mohamed Yahya informed the President that he has been appointed Assistant Secretary-General for the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and is expected to take up his new position next month.

President Asif Ali Zardari congratulated him on his new assignment, conveyed his best wishes, and assured him of Pakistan's full support.