Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative of UNDP Pakistan emphasizes the critical need to promote social cohesion, gender parity and the empowerment of women. Rizk calls for a transformative shift towards a rights-based approach, placing women at the forefront of development efforts. He remarks on the UNDP's Five-Year Country Program (2023-2027) which strategically prioritizes gender empowerment as one of its four pillars, essential to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In addition, Rizk highlights UNDP’s ongoing commitment to tackling climate change in collaboration with the Government of Pakistan and other national partners. Key initiatives include scaling up e-mobility, promoting renewable energy, and enhancing disaster risk reduction efforts. Projects such as GLOF2 and biomass energy solutions are designed to mitigate climate impacts and support vulnerable communities in post-disaster scenarios, helping to reduce Pakistan's carbon footprint.

He further underscores the importance of strategic partnerships, particularly with the OICCI (Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry). Through advocacy and aligning business practices and investments with the SDGs, this collaboration aims to drive progress in women's empowerment, sustainability, innovation, and climate action, positioning Pakistan for a more resilient and inclusive future.