Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday reiterated Pakistan’s pledge to advance a transportation system that is safe, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. Speaking via a video link at the Global Sustainable Transport Forum-2024 in Beijing, he detailed plans to collaborate with China to foster sustainable development that promises to bring about peace and prosperity.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, the President emphasized the need for resilient infrastructure to provide efficient and eco-friendly transport solutions globally. He commended China for leading efforts towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with a special focus on transportation’s pivotal role.

President Zardari showcased several of Pakistan’s initiatives aimed at enhancing public transport and road accessibility. Notable among these was the introduction of pink buses for women, enhancing safety and accessibility, and the improvement of rural road access, which now stands at 92%. These efforts, he noted, are crucial for sustainable development and providing essential services to rural communities.

Further, the President outlined the challenges faced by Pakistan in maintaining infrastructure amid climate change impacts, including severe floods and extreme weather that have damaged vital transport networks and isolated millions, particularly in rural regions.

He praised China’s significant contributions to sustainable development and its impact on regional and global economic prosperity. President Zardari expressed Pakistan’s support for developing sustainable transport cooperation among member states and lauded the initiatives led by Chinese President Xi.