I WAS astonished to read a recent news report that the UNDP, which is a high-profile, specialised development agency of the United Nations, has signed an agreement with a leading international company producing and marketing fizzy drinks for a programme aimed at empowering and harnessing youth potential in the country.

It is now a universal truth endorsed by the World Health Organisation, another UN agency, that the consumption of fizzy drinks, or bottles providing aerated beverages, is harmful for human consumption.

How come a UN agency entered into an agreement whose use or consumption is forbidden by medical doctors? These drinks contain a high level of sugar which causes obesity and diabetes.

World Health Organisation, which is an agency supposed to look after the health issues in member countries, has also kept silent on this venture initiated by a sister agency.

Both the international organisations and its specialised agencies owe an explanation to the citizens of Pakistan.

Name withheld on request

Karachi

Published in Dawn, January 23rd, 2019