Pakistan is intensifying its efforts to designate the snow leopard as an international symbol of climate adaptation at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), collaborating with the 12 member countries of the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP). This initiative was highlighted during a high-level meeting at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, where Romina Khurshid Alam, the Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Climate Change, outlined the steps for this ambitious project.
The proposed plan includes sending formal communications to the UNGA, snow leopard range countries, and key wildlife conservation organizations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will play a critical role in ensuring a unified national approach. Additionally, global diplomatic efforts will be launched in coordination with snow leopard range states and institutions, as Pakistan prepares to present a compelling case at the upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November.
During the meeting, Romina Khurshid emphasized Pakistan’s enduring commitment to wildlife conservation. “The snow leopard is more than just a symbol of natural beauty; it is a critical indicator of climate change. Pakistan is among the nations most affected by climate change, and we stand ready to take every necessary action to raise awareness and support efforts to address its impacts,” she stated.
Ambassador for Wildlife, Sardar Jamal Ahmad Khan Leghari, commended Pakistan’s leadership in this initiative, working closely with GSLEP member countries to elevate the snow leopard as a global symbol of climate resilience. “We are engaging with stakeholders both domestically and internationally, and I am optimistic that our collective efforts will lead to the adoption of this proposal by the United Nations,” he remarked. He also asserted that Pakistan’s voice on climate action would be stronger on the global stage.
Dr. Muhammad Ali Nawaz, Director of the Snow Leopard Foundation, noted that Pakistan is home to a significant population of snow leopards, many of which are highly vulnerable. He expressed optimism that once the resolution is presented to the UN, it will significantly contribute to raising global awareness about climate change while enhancing Pakistan’s international image. Furthermore, he stated that this initiative would bolster conservation efforts not only within Pakistan but across all regions inhabited by snow leopards.
Koustubh Sharma, representing GSLEP, expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s impactful step, emphasizing that the initiative has the potential to significantly improve snow leopard conservation efforts. He acknowledged the work ahead of COP29 and reaffirmed their commitment to raising awareness and ensuring that representatives from participating countries are sensitized to the urgency of the issue.
