Islamabad, Nov 21: A high-level Pakistani delegation, led by Romina Khurshid Alam, the Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Climate Change, met with COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, in Baku. The discussion focused on shared goals of environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and international collaboration.
Romina Khurshid Alam congratulated Azerbaijan on successfully hosting COP29, where over 196 countries are addressing climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity-building challenges. She praised Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister for supporting Pakistan’s call for wealthy nations to fulfill their climate finance pledges during the November 12 Climate Finance Roundtable.
Pakistan’s Climate Challenges and Vision
Alam highlighted Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change despite its minimal global emissions contribution (less than 1%). The country estimates a need for $348 billion by 2030 to implement its climate resilience and mitigation plans, with limited international climate finance support so far.
The delegation emphasized Pakistan’s efforts at COP29 to push for enhanced global cooperation, focusing on climate finance, technology transfer, and the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund initiated at COP27. Alam also revealed plans to host a V20 Group conference early next year, fostering collaboration among 68 member countries to address shared climate risks and funding avenues.
Commitment to Global Climate Action
Mukhtar Babayev commended Pakistan’s proactive stance and its collaboration with developing nations, including the G77+. Both sides expressed hope that COP29 would compel wealthier countries to honor their climate finance commitments, facilitating tangible support for vulnerable nations.
