ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday held a farewell meeting with United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan Mohamed Yahya, praising his contribution to strengthening cooperation between Pakistan and the United Nations during his tenure.

The meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office came as Yahya prepares to take up a senior position at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). He has been appointed Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator.

Shehbaz thanked Yahya for his services and appreciated the continued support provided by the UN Country Team to Pakistan’s development and humanitarian priorities. The prime minister specifically highlighted cooperation in areas including climate resilience, sustainable development and disaster response.

The prime minister also recalled the United Nations’ role in mobilizing international assistance for Pakistan following the devastating 2022 floods. The disaster affected millions of people and triggered a major international humanitarian response.

Shehbaz congratulated Yahya on his new appointment, describing it as recognition of his experience and commitment to humanitarian work. He expressed confidence that Pakistan’s longstanding partnership with the United Nations would continue to expand.

Yahya, in turn, thanked the Pakistani government for its cooperation and support during his tenure. He reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting Pakistan’s development and humanitarian agenda.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi and other senior government officials attended the meeting.

Yahya’s new role at OCHA is expected to place him at the center of international humanitarian coordination, while Pakistan and the UN are expected to maintain cooperation on development, climate resilience and disaster preparedness.