PM Shehbaz Sharif Addresses Climate Challenges at COP-29 in Baku

The United Nations Climate Change Conference 2024, known as COP-29, has officially commenced in Baku, Azerbaijan, and will run until November 22. This significant event gathers world leaders to discuss pressing climate issues and seek solutions to combat climate change. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan is set to play a pivotal role in the opening session today, where he will address the challenges faced by developing nations in the context of climate change.

During the conference, Prime Minister Sharif will host the Climate Finance Roundtable Conference, which is expected to attract numerous global leaders. His focus will be on the unique struggles of developing countries, particularly Pakistan, which, despite contributing minimally to global emissions, suffers disproportionately from the effects of climate change. This highlights a critical injustice in the global climate narrative, where those who contribute the least often bear the brunt of the consequences.

In addition to the roundtable, the Prime Minister will participate in a high-level event titled “Glaciers 2025: Actions for Glaciers,” organized by the President of Tajikistan. This event aims to address the urgent need for glacier protection, a vital issue for many countries, including Pakistan, where glaciers are crucial for water supply and agriculture.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Sharif is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with the Prime Ministers of Denmark and the Czech Republic. These discussions will center on enhancing bilateral relations and addressing climate change-related risks that Pakistan faces. The Prime Minister's participation in COP-29 underscores Pakistan's commitment to advocating for climate finance access for developing nations, a topic that has gained significant attention during the conference.

As the opening plenary session unfolds, Pakistan's delegation is emphasizing the importance of reaching an agreement on the New Collective Quantified Goal for climate finance. This goal is essential for ensuring that developing countries receive the necessary support to combat climate change effectively. The call for strengthened multilateral cooperation is particularly relevant in today's world, where geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties are on the rise.

The participation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at COP-29 is a crucial step in bringing attention to the plight of developing countries in the face of climate change. As discussions progress, it is imperative for global leaders to recognize the need for equitable solutions that address the disparities in climate impact and finance. The outcomes of this conference could shape the future of climate action and cooperation, making it a pivotal moment for nations like Pakistan that are striving for a sustainable and resilient future.