Pakistan’s Historic Achievement: Sahibzad Khan Elected WMO Vice President for Asia

Pakistan Shines on Global Stage: Sahibzad Khan Elected WMO Vice President for Asia

The election of Sahibzad Khan as the Vice President for Asia in the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) marks a significant milestone for Pakistan in the realm of global meteorological leadership. This prestigious appointment, finalized during the 18th Session of the WMO Regional Association II, underscores the international community’s acknowledgment of Khan’s exceptional leadership, technical acumen, and commitment to enhancing meteorological services across Asia.

Khan’s election signifies global recognition of Pakistan’s active role in fostering regional meteorological cooperation and its steadfast efforts to mitigate climate vulnerabilities within Asia. In his capacity as the Permanent Representative of Pakistan with the WMO, Sahibzad Khan brings with him an extensive background in meteorology, climate science, and disaster risk reduction. Under his guidance, Pakistan has made remarkable strides in advancing early warning systems, integrating climate services, and facilitating regional collaborations to bolster resilience against extreme weather and climate-induced hazards.

In his acceptance speech, Sahibzad Khan highlighted the necessity of a “unified regional approach to tackle the escalating impacts of climate change, particularly for vulnerable communities.” He emphasized that through collaboration and innovation, Asia could enhance its preparedness, reduce risks, and build a more resilient future for its inhabitants.

The WMO Regional Association II (Asia) is composed of 35 Member States and Territories. Its mission is to foster regional coordination in weather, climate, water, and environmental services to support sustainable development and disaster risk reduction across Asia.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department, along with the entire nation, celebrates this significant achievement. It is viewed as a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s ongoing journey toward assuming a leadership role on the global climate stage.