ISLAMABAD: Pakistan, in collaboration with 12 member countries of the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP), is accelerating efforts to have the snow leopard recognized as an international symbol of climate adaptation at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
During a meeting at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Romina Khurshid Alam, the Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Climate Change, outlined the key steps of the initiative. Formal communications will be sent to the UNGA, snow leopard range countries, and wildlife conservation organizations, according to an official press release issued on Monday.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will also play a pivotal role, in ensuring a unified national approach. Pakistan plans to present its case during the upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November, with a goal to raise global awareness and promote conservation.
Romina Khurshid highlighted Pakistan’s long-standing dedication to wildlife preservation. “The snow leopard is more than just a symbol of natural beauty; it is a vital indicator of climate change. As one of the countries most affected by climate change, Pakistan is committed to taking all necessary steps to raise awareness and address its impacts,” she said.
Sardar Jamal Ahmad Khan Leghari, Pakistan’s Ambassador for Wildlife, praised the country’s leadership in the global effort. He expressed confidence that Pakistan’s proactive role, alongside GSLEP member countries, will position the snow leopard as a symbol of climate resilience.
“We are actively engaging stakeholders at both national and international levels, and I am optimistic that our collaborative efforts will lead to the adoption of this proposal by the United Nations,” he added. “Pakistan’s presence on the global climate stage will be stronger than ever.”
Dr. Muhammad Ali Nawaz, Director of the Snow Leopard Foundation, emphasized that Pakistan is home to a significant population of snow leopards, many of which face critical threats. He expressed optimism that presenting this resolution to the UN would boost global climate change awareness and elevate Pakistan’s global standing in conservation.
Koustubh Sharma, representing GSLEP, lauded Pakistan for its impactful leadership. “This initiative has great potential to advance snow leopard conservation. There’s much work ahead before COP29, but we are fully committed to raising awareness and ensuring that participating countries understand the urgency of the issue,” he said.
This initiative not only promises to enhance conservation efforts in Pakistan but also aims to protect snow leopards across their entire range.
