Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination convened under Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb’s leadership to evaluate Pakistan’s engagement and outcomes from COP 29. The session underscored Pakistan’s active representation at the summit, key negotiation takeaways, and future strategies. The committee stressed the importance of local solutions, effective financial mechanisms, and fair participation in climate initiatives.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the Ministry of Climate Change briefed the committee on Pakistan’s involvement at COP 29, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led the delegation. Pakistan introduced its Climate Finance Strategy targeting adaptation, mitigation, and resilience by 2030 and launched Carbon Market Guidelines under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. The country’s pavilion hosted 52 events, attracting international attention. Achievements included a $200 million flood insurance MOU under the Global Shield Framework. However, delays in contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund and geopolitical challenges in accessing climate finance were noted.

Committee members raised concerns about the funds used for Pakistan’s pavilion and the benefits from COP 29. The secretary assured that unused funds remain with the Ministry and highlighted opportunities for concessional loans and new project approvals. Members advocated for the inclusion of elected representatives in delegations, citing their grassroots knowledge as vital for policy development.

Discussions focused on Pakistan’s role in negotiations regarding the New Collective Quantified Goal, emphasizing non-debt finance for developing countries. Priority areas included climate adaptation, technology transfer, and ecosystem restoration.

The committee deferred “The Pakistan Environmental Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2024” until the next meeting. Attendees included MNAs Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb, Mr. Aqeel Malik, and others, along with senior ministry officers.