On Monday, September 5, 2022, Congressman Al Green (TX-09) joined Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18) and Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03) of the Congressional Pakistani Caucus on an official U.S. Congressional Delegation trip to Pakistan. He released the following statement:

“While I regret having to travel to Pakistan under the tragic circumstances brought upon by catastrophic flooding, I look forward to helping with on-the-ground relief efforts. A top priority while in Pakistan and upon my return to the U.S. is to help acquire much needed aid during a time of national crisis,” Congressman Al Green expressed. “I would also like to take this time to extend my heartfelt condolences to the entire Pakistani people within Pakistan as well as the diaspora. I mourn for all persons who have perished and the millions who have been displaced as a result of this tragic natural disaster, as well as for the extensive damage that has left Pakistan in such a vulnerable state.”

According to recent news reports, approximately one third of Pakistan is currently underwater. Over 33 million Pakistanis have been affected by record-breaking monsoons and over 1,000 individuals have lost their lives.

“Although the U.S. has pledged $30 million in aid to Pakistan for potable water, food, and shelter, it is not enough. The richer nations of the world must do more to aid the people of Pakistan, particularly as it relates to the warming of our planet. The alarmingly rapid pace at which glaciers in Pakistan are melting has played a significant role in the deadly flooding currently being witnessed,” Congressman Al Green indicated. “The richer nations of the world are the top carbon dioxide (CO2) emission producers. Yet, it is countries such as Pakistan, which account for less than one percent of the world’s CO2 emissions, that are bearing the brunt of the global carbon footprint.”

Congressman Al Green concluded, “Without reservation, hesitation, or equivocation, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was imminently correct, especially as it relates to climate change, when he proclaimed that ‘…what affects one directly affects all indirectly.’ Climate change is real, is here, is proving to be disastrously fatal, and is extending beyond the borders of wealthier, top-polluting nations. As such, it is the moral imperative of all countries around the world to do better by its pledges to leave a cleaner, healthier Earth for posterity. I urge all people of goodwill to join me in advocating for stronger climate change mitigation efforts, providing aid, and praying for the millions of Pakistanis affected during this difficult time.”