Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the International Conference on Glacier Protection in Tajikistan's capital on Thursday, highlighting Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change and urging the world, particularly developed nations, to fulfil their responsibilities in combating the crisis.
Speaking at the conference, the Prime Minister noted that Pakistan is home to over 13,000 glaciers, making it one of the most glaciated countries outside the polar regions. He emphasized that glaciers are a vital source of freshwater, contributing to nearly half of Pakistan’s water resources.
"Like many countries, Pakistan is facing the devastating impacts of climate change. Our glaciers are melting at an alarming rate due to rising global temperatures," he said.
وزیراعظم شہباز شریف کادوشنبے میں گلیشیرز کے تحفظ کے حوالے سے منعقدہ عالمی کانفرنس سے خطاب! https://t.co/rf4tgse1N8
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) May 30, 2025
The prime minister recalled the 2022 floods in Pakistan, which were triggered by erratic weather patterns and heavy monsoon rains exacerbated by climate change. "These disasters displaced millions and caused widespread destruction," he added.
He stressed the urgent need for collective international efforts to mitigate climate change, pointing out that Pakistan contributes less than 0.5% to global greenhouse gas emissions, yet remains among the top 10 countries most affected by climate change.
“The changing climate is also disrupting ecosystems, threatening biodiversity and livelihoods,” PM Shehbaz said. He called on developed countries to increase investment in early warning systems in developing nations and to play a more active role in climate adaptation efforts.
وزیراعظم شہباز شریف کادوشنبے میں گلیشیرز کے تحفظ کے حوالے سے منعقدہ عالمی کانفرنس سے خطاب! https://t.co/rf4tgse1N8
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) May 30, 2025
Condemning India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, the Prime Minister said, “Pakistan will not compromise on its rightful share of water.”
He also congratulated the President of Tajikistan for hosting a timely and comprehensive discussion on the protection of glaciers and addressing shared environmental challenges.
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