‘Pakistan dedicatedly addressing climate challenges’

Islamabad:Pakistan is actively participating in COP28, attending 28 events that offer a worldwide forum for conversations on various viewpoints and climate change-related projects. 

Under the overarching themes of ‘finance/trade/gender equality/accountability’ and ‘energy and industry/just transition/indigenous peoples,’ the Pakistan Pavilion has successfully organised and hosted a total of 10 events to date.

The country's dedication to openness and cooperation is demonstrated by the way different organisations present their initiatives on this global platform.

Today's focus is on the valuable insights derived from key discussions involving the Ministry of Planning, Sindh People's Housing Foundation (SPHF), UN Women, Danish Energy Agency and the Sustainable Energy & Economic Development (SEED) Programme.

The COP28 panel titled ‘Enhancing Cross-Agency Coordination for the Expansion of Climate Finance,’ organised by the Planning Commission of Pakistan, was a pivotal gathering of policymakers and experts. Moderated by Nadia Rehman, Member of the Planning Commission, the session addressed strategies to attract private investment and international support for Pakistan's climate finance needs.

Awais Manzur Sumra, secretary at the Ministry of Planning, highlighted the role of the Sustainable Finance Bureau in preparing projects across agencies. Sindh People's Housing Foundation (SPHF) convened an important, focusing on advancing climate action and building resilience after the 2022 floods. The session showcased collaborative efforts between SPHF and International Financial Institutions, aiming to build 2 million resilient houses in Sindh. The caretaker chief minister of Sindh introduced the donor platform, a cooperative initiative to unite stakeholders and resources. The international community is invited to actively engage in this transformative initiative, with gratitude expressed to the World Bank and discussions underway with the Islamic Development Bank and Asian Development Bank.

During the panel discussion, OGDCL (Oil and Gas Development Company Limited) participants engaged in a discourse involving various stakeholders. UN Women contributed significantly to Gender Day at COP28, emphasising inclusive policies for a fair transition. Co-hosting two events at the Pakistan Pavilion, UN Women and the Ministry of Climate Change highlighted the interconnectedness of gender, climate, and security. The discussions included perspectives from national and international institutions, climate activists, youth, the private sector, and financial institutions.

These discussions underscore Pakistan's dedication to addressing climate challenges comprehensively, promoting global cooperation, and building a sustainable and resilient future.