Report: ANI Correspondent:
MANILA — Senators Abdul Qadir and Syed Waqar Mehdi, representing the Senate of Pakistan, 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 stressed that fair, transparent and predictable distribution of public resources was essential for inclusive growth and effective delivery of education, healthcare and other services. He also emphasized fiscal devolution to local governments and stronger accountability.
Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi highlighted the growing fiscal pressures caused by climate change, natural disasters, water insecurity and environmental degradation, citing Pakistan’s experience with the devastating 2022 floods, heatwaves and droughts.
He called for greater access to climate adaptation finance, technology and capacity-building support, stressing that intergovernmental transfers should take climate vulnerability and disaster exposure into account.
Both senators emphasized transparency, effective management of public finances and stronger parliamentary oversight to promote equity and climate resilience.
