Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has extended his Washington visit by one more day, it was learnt on Wednesday. According to the earlier schedule, Bilawal was supposed to conclude his visit to Washington by Sept 28 but suddenly his stay has been prolonged by one more day. At the end of his visit, the foreign minister would hold an important press conference. Sources said that FM Bilawal’s stay has been extended in view of his engagements. His meetings with the members of US Senate and Congress have also been scheduled. During his talk at the Wilson Center yesterday, Foreign Minister Bilawal while highlighting the devastation caused by floods in Pakistan said the developing countries must be provided with sufficient means to adequately face the impact of climate change. He said the global problems could only be addressed through global solutions. “Pakistan is facing an apocalyptic crisis in the shape of devastating floods”, he said and highlighted that catastrophic floods in Pakistan were proof that global warming was an existential threat facing the world today.

He told the gathering that Pakistan contributed less than 1% to the global greenhouse gas emissions “yet we are one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change. “Pakistan is seeking climate justice. We are a resilient nation and will rebuild better, greener using climate resilient infrastructure with the cooperation of our friends in the international community,” he remarked. To a question, Bilawal advised PTI Chairman Imran Khan to return to the National Assembly and give respect to democratic institutions. He said Pakistan valued its long-standing relations with the United States. Both sides were focused on strengthening a broad-based relationship on the principles of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit that was not viewed through the prism of any other country or relationship. The foreign minister said that strengthening business, trade and investment ties and expanding cooperation in climate change, energy, agriculture, IT/tech and education was a top priority.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-INP