Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has stressed the importance of space technology in protecting vulnerable communities from climate change and natural disasters. He said Pakistan needs to
Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has stressed the importance of space technology in
protecting vulnerable communities from climate change and natural disasters. He said Pakistan
needs to use satellite information and early warning systems to reduce damage and save
human lives.
The minister shared these views while addressing the opening session of an international
conference organised in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs
(UNOOSA). He explained that modern space technology could help countries prepare for floods
and cyclones and other serious natural disasters.
Ahsan Iqbal highlighted Pakistan’s difficult situation regarding climate change. He said the
country contributes less than one per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions but faces
serious environmental challenges.
He referred to the devastating floods of 2022 and 2025 and said Pakistan had suffered
economic losses exceeding 30 billion dollars. He stressed that these disasters had placed a
heavy burden on the country’s economy and affected many communities.
The minister also expressed concern about the lack of sufficient financial support from
international partners. He said developing countries affected by climate disasters should receive
fair assistance instead of being forced to take more loans for recovery.
He called for changes in the international financial system to help vulnerable nations rebuild
after disasters. He argued that countries facing the worst effects of climate change should
receive grant-based funding rather than additional debt.
Ahsan Iqbal also discussed Pakistan’s progress in space technology. He said the country had
successfully launched five satellites over the previous 18 months. He further announced that
Pakistan was preparing to send its first astronaut into space in the near future.
The minister stressed that satellite information should become part of national development
planning. He said this technology could help authorities build safer roads and bridges and
hospitals by identifying possible risks before construction begins.
He also called for better information sharing between government institutions and increased
investment in space science. He particularly encouraged more young people and women to
pursue careers in space technology and geospatial studies.
The minister highlighted the importance of cooperation between neighbouring countries. He said
sharing information about rivers and mountains could improve disaster preparation and
emergency response.
Ahsan Iqbal expressed hope that the conference would produce practical recommendations for
using space technology to protect lives and support economic development.
Source: Statement by Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives
Professor Ahsan Iqbal at an international conference organised in collaboration with UNOOSA.
