President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to fostering a safe, sustainable, and eco-friendly transportation system in a video address at the Global Sustainable Transport Forum 2024, held in Beijing from September 25 to 26.
He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to working closely with China to achieve sustainable development goals, promoting peace and prosperity. Zardari highlighted the need for resilient infrastructure to create efficient, environment-friendly, and low-carbon transportation solutions that meet the needs of the people.
Commending China’s leadership in advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the president acknowledged the critical role of the transport sector. He also shared Pakistan's initiatives, such as the introduction of pink buses designed specifically for women, providing a safe and accessible public transportation option.
Zardari further noted that rural accessibility to all-weather roads in Pakistan had improved significantly, reaching 92%, which plays a crucial role in sustainable development and providing essential services to rural communities.
He outlined the challenges Pakistan faces in maintaining sustainable infrastructure, particularly in the face of climate change. Over the past five years, extreme weather events like floods and heavy rainfall have severely damaged the country’s transport networks, isolating millions, especially in rural areas.
President Zardari praised China’s efforts in promoting sustainable development and its contribution to regional and global economic prosperity. He reiterated Pakistan's support for the development of sustainable transport cooperation among member states, applauding China’s initiatives under President Xi Jinping’s leadership.
