Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday once again drew the attention of the developed world towards poorer economies which are struggling more than ever before because of the coronavirus pandemic, adding that such countries need a “revolution and a vision for the future.”
“We need a revolution and a vision for the future. The COVID-19 pandemic and the climate crisis should send a message to all — rich and poor and weak or powerful — that we will perish or survive together,” the premier said while addressing the 44th session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development’s Governing Council.
The conference, taking place on 17 and 18 February 2021, would focus on the overarching theme “Rural development: a prerequisite for global resilience”, said IFAD.
Addressing the conference, PM Imran Khan said that over 20 countries are food insecure, adding that the World Food Programme has warned of famine in the world’s poorest countries and conflict zones.
He said that the world faces multiple challenges in recovering from the pandemic and achieving vital sustainable development goals of no poverty and zero hunger.
There is a lack of financing, shortage of investment, trade distortions, unsustainable consumption patterns, degradation of agricultural lands and forests, an impending water crisis, loss of biodiversity, and polluted rivers and oceans, he said.