Climate change is such an issue that needs the whole world’s efforts to confront it
KARACHI: Prime Minister Imran Khan delivered a 50-minute speech in the United Nations General Assembly talking about the oppressed people of the India-occupied Kashmir, climate change, money laundering, and Islamaphobia. The whole nation eagerly listened to the speech. He was indeed speaking from the heart as the diction, content and body language was filled with passion.
Mr Khan truly represented not only the suppressed Kashmiris but the entire Muslim world and tried to project the positive image of Islam that was taught to us by our Holy Prophet (PBUH). He further stated that terrorism has nothing to do with any religion as, after 9/11, the Muslims were labelled as terrorist by the West. Some misguided people took up guns when they were mistreated and deprived of their basic rights.
Representing the Muslim world in general and the people of IoK in particular is a good step but Pakistan must always come first and the wellbeing of every citizen must be given top priority. The country has been confronting multiple long- standing internal issues ranging from economic crisis, foreign debt, terrorism, corruption, injustices, child abduction, molestation, honour killing, poor health and educational facilities, poverty, etc. There is a dire need to turn our attention to these issues.
Pakistan is on the list of the top 10 countries affected by climate change as freak weather events leading to excessive rains and floods also create havoc in the country. Climate change is such an issue that needs the whole world’s efforts to confront it. On the other hand, many parts of the country are experiencing an acute shortage of water.
Imran Khan is no doubt an honest man with great leadership qualities. He delivered a comprehensive speech and inspired people all around the world. However, he also should leave no stone unturned in uplifting the socio-economic conditions in Pakistan by addressing the overwhelming long-standing internal issues and crises through good governance. A stable and prosperous nation can better serve others.
Karim Muhammad Khan
Published in The Express Tribune, October 2nd, 2019.
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