Pakistani Senators highlight fiscal equity, climate resilience at Manila gathering

ISLAMABAD, Sep 29 (APP): Senators Abdul Qadir and Syed Waqar Mehdi, representing the Senate of Pakistan Tuesday addressed the first Gathering of Intergovernmental Fiscal Institutions in Manila, highlighting Pakistan’s experience in fiscal federalism, equitable resource distribution, climate financing and parliamentary oversight.

Senator Abdul Qadir said fair, predictable and transparent distribution of public resources was essential for inclusive growth and effective delivery of education, healthcare and other services.

He emphasized the importance of fiscal devolution to local governments and stronger accountability, noting that the Senate of Pakistan, as the house representing the provinces, attaches particular importance to equitable resource sharing, transparency and effective management of public finances.

 He also welcomed the proposed IGFIN peer network for sharing practical experiences among federations.

Speaking on emerging issues and climate-related transfers, Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi said climate change, natural disasters, water insecurity and environmental degradation were creating growing fiscal pressures, particularly for vulnerable regions.

He highlighted Pakistan’s experience with the devastating 2022 floods, heatwaves and droughts, calling for greater access to climate adaptation finance, technology and capacity-building support.

Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi stressed that intergovernmental transfers should take account of climate vulnerability, disaster exposure and environmental responsibilities.

He called for predictable and transparent climate financing, stronger climate-budget tagging and parliamentary oversight, emphasizing that fiscal policy should advance equity, environmental responsibility and climate resilience.