Pakistan, July 29 -- Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb on Tuesday described climate change and rapid population growth as the two greatest existential challenges facing Pakistan, stressing that sustainable economic growth depends on effectively addressing both issues through long-term planning and investment.

Speaking during a visit to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) headquarters, the finance minister said the government had launched a US$2 billion programme aimed at strengthening climate resilience and mitigating the impacts of environmental degradation.

He added that approximately US$700 million annually has been allocated to tackle natural disasters, reduce vulnerabilities, and protect both lives and c...