ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is working with 12 member countries of the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP) to promote the snow leopard as an international symbol of climate adaptation at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
During a recent high-level meeting at the Ministry of Climate Change, Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam, discussed the initiative’s steps. The plan includes sending formal communications to the UNGA, countries where snow leopards live, and important wildlife conservation organizations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will also be involved to ensure a coordinated national effort. Pakistan aims to present a strong case at the upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, this November.
Khurshid emphasized the snow leopard’s importance, stating, “It is a critical indicator of climate change. As one of the countries most affected by climate change, we are committed to raising awareness and supporting efforts to address its impacts.”
Ambassador for Wildlife, Sardar Jamal Ahmad Khan Leghari, praised Pakistan’s leadership in this initiative and expressed optimism that their collective efforts would lead to the UN adopting the proposal.
Dr. Muhammad Ali Nawaz, Director of the Snow Leopard Foundation, highlighted Pakistan’s significant population of snow leopards and the initiative’s potential to enhance conservation efforts in all regions where these animals are found.
Koustubh Sharma from GSLEP thanked Pakistan for its impactful step and noted that there is still much work ahead of COP29 to ensure awareness of this important issue.