Murtaza Wahab  Inspires Global Mayors with Pakistan’s Perspective on Climate Change and Sustainable Future

Pakistan’s perspective on climate change took center stage at the International Mayors Forum 2025, where Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab delivered a compelling address in Toyota City, Japan. The annual forum brought together city leaders from across the world to discuss climate resilience, sustainable development, and urban innovation.

Wahab’s participation marked a milestone in Pakistan’s growing international engagement on climate diplomacy. His speech emphasized Pakistan’s transformative approach to tackling climate challenges, particularly through the Sindh Government’s climate resilience projects and urban sustainability programs.

International Mayors Forum 2025: A Global Platform for Sustainability

The International Mayors Forum 2025 served as a dynamic venue where global city leaders shared strategies to combat urban climate challenges. Representatives from Japan, Germany, Brazil, Kenya, and Pakistan discussed the importance of green infrastructure, renewable energy, and sustainable housing in mitigating the effects of climate change.

Global leaders underscored the need for collaborative urban planning and technology transfer to build resilient cities. Wahab’s address highlighted how Pakistan is integrating science-driven climate action into governance and development frameworks.

“Our participation at the global level reflects Pakistan’s determination to confront climate threats with innovation and partnership,” Wahab affirmed.

Wahab Highlights Sindh’s Climate Resilience Initiatives

Mayor Murtaza Wahab presented a detailed overview of Sindh’s climate adaptation policies, stating that the Sindh Government, in coordination with federal institutions, has adopted a comprehensive climate strategy that is now yielding visible results.

Key initiatives include:

• Climate-resilient housing construction for flood-affected families.
• Rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure post-2022 floods.
• Expansion of urban green spaces in Karachi and Hyderabad.
• Promotion of renewable energy through solar and wind projects.

Wahab stressed that these projects represent not only environmental progress but also social and economic empowerment for vulnerable communities.

Building Hope: 2.1 Million Climate-Resilient Homes in Sindh

In one of the most powerful segments of his speech, Wahab spotlighted the construction of 2.1 million Climate-Resilient Homes—a project launched in the aftermath of the 2022 devastating floods that displaced millions across Sindh.

According to Wahab, 1.2 million homes have already been completed, providing shelter and security to thousands of families. These homes are designed with elevated foundations, sustainable materials, and flood-resistant designs, ensuring protection against future climate disasters.

“The construction of these homes is not merely rehabilitation,” Wahab stated, “but a guarantee of a sustainable and secure future for our citizens.”

This initiative is recognized globally, with partnerships and technical assistance from UN-Habitat, UNDP, and the World Bank.

Global Cooperation for a Sustainable Future

Wahab underscored that climate change cannot be addressed in isolation. He called for global solidarity, technology transfer, and mutual support to mitigate climate impacts. Pakistan’s experience with floods, heatwaves, and droughts has positioned it as both a victim and a proactive responder in the global climate narrative.

He emphasized that developing countries like Pakistan require international financial assistance and green investment mechanisms to transition toward low-carbon economies.

“Through global cooperation and shared innovation, we can turn climate risks into opportunities for progress,” Wahab said, evoking strong applause from participants.

Green Urban Planning and Energy Efficiency

The forum’s agenda strongly aligned with Pakistan’s own priorities—particularly the promotion of green infrastructure, energy efficiency, and sustainable mobility in urban areas.

Mayor Wahab shared Karachi’s recent steps:

• Introducing solar-powered public lighting systems.
• Expanding electric bus networks to cut emissions.
• Increasing urban forest projects under the “Green Karachi” initiative.
• Developing sustainable drainage and waste management systems to prevent flooding.

These measures are part of the broader Sindh Climate Change Policy, which aims to transform cities into resilient, livable, and energy-smart hubs by 2030.

Pakistan’s Active Role in Global Climate Diplomacy

Mayor Wahab reaffirmed that Pakistan’s increasing participation in international climate dialogues demonstrates its seriousness and commitment to global environmental goals.

He highlighted Pakistan’s collaboration with organizations such as UNESCO, UNDP, and the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, where Karachi and Sindh continue to share innovative resilience models.

This engagement reflects Pakistan’s belief in shared responsibility and collective action, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

External link suggestion: Learn more about the UN SDGs

Conclusion: A Shared Vision for a Climate-Resilient World

Mayor Murtaza Wahab’s participation in the International Mayors Forum 2025 has strengthened Pakistan’s global climate leadership image. His presentation of Pakistan’s perspective on climate change showcased a nation committed to innovation, resilience, and partnership.

As global cities confront mounting climate challenges, Pakistan’s example of community-driven adaptation, green governance, and sustainable rebuilding offers valuable lessons.

Wahab concluded his address with optimism:

“Our goal is not only to rebuild what was lost but to build better, stronger, and greener—for our people and for the planet.”

Through such visionary leadership, Pakistan continues to emerge as a beacon of hope in the global climate movement—transforming challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth.