Dr. Musadik Malik, the Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, called upon global climate leaders to honor their climate finance commitments and enhance collaboration between developed and developing nations. He made these remarks during the COP29 Heads of Delegation (HoD) Retreat held in Shamakhi, Azerbaijan.
The retreat, a private dialogue among Heads of Delegation from around the world, aimed to foster trust and establish a clear path towards achieving meaningful outcomes at COP29, which is slated to take place later this year in Azerbaijan. Discussions primarily centered on critical unresolved issues, including climate financing, loss and damage mechanisms, and narrowing the implementation gap in emissions reduction pledges.
Addressing the high-level gathering, Malik stressed the imperative for “climate justice, equity, and stronger collaboration between the Global North and South” in confronting the escalating climate crisis. He underscored Pakistan’s extreme vulnerability to climate change, noting that despite its minimal contribution to global emissions, the country is severely impacted by climate-related disasters such as floods, droughts, and extreme heat.
“The time for promises is over. Developing countries like Pakistan require inclusive and transparent access to climate finance, technology, and adaptation support,” Malik stated. He added, “The world cannot afford delay — the Paris Agreement must be honored in both letter and spirit.” He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to a climate-resilient and sustainable development pathway, and its proactive role in shaping a fair and effective international climate framework.
The minister also urged developed nations to fulfill their pledged contributions towards the $100 billion annual climate finance goal. This commitment was made under the 2015 Paris Agreement to assist less affluent countries in coping with the impacts of climate change.
Pakistan, consistently ranked among the top 10 most climate-vulnerable countries globally, has recently experienced devastating monsoons and rising temperatures, leading to the displacement of millions and significant infrastructure damage. The country has been a prominent advocate for equitable climate action and increased support for adaptation and mitigation efforts in the Global South.
The HoD retreat represents a crucial milestone in the lead-up to COP29, providing an invaluable opportunity for countries to align on key priorities before formal negotiations commence.
