Snow Leopard to Become Global Climate Adaptation Symbol

News Desk

Islamabad:  The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination (MoCCEC) is intensifying efforts to propose the snow leopard as an international symbol of climate adaptation at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

This initiative is in collaboration with the 12 member countries of the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP).

During a high-level meeting at the MoCCEC, Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam, outlined the steps involved in this initiative.

The plan includes sending formal communications to the UNGA, snow leopard range countries, and key wildlife conservation organizations, as stated in a press release on Monday.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will also play a pivotal role in ensuring a unified national approach.

Pakistan aims to launch global diplomatic efforts in coordination with snow leopard range states and institutions, presenting a robust case at the upcoming COP 29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November.

In her address, Romina Khurshid emphasized Pakistan’s enduring commitment to wildlife conservation, stating, “The snow leopard is more than just a symbol of natural beauty; it is a critical indicator of climate change.

As one of the nations most affected by climate change, we are prepared to take every necessary action to raise awareness and support efforts to combat its impacts.”

Sardar Jamal Ahmad Khan Leghari, Pakistan’s Ambassador for Wildlife, praised the country’s leadership in this initiative, highlighting the collaboration with GSLEP member countries to position 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 stated. “Pakistan’s voice on climate action will be stronger than ever on the global stage.”

Dr Muhammad Ali Nawaz, Director of the Snow Leopard Foundation, noted that Pakistan is at the forefront of this global initiative, being home to a significant population of snow leopards, many of which are highly vulnerable.

He expressed confidence that once the resolution is presented to the UN, it will significantly contribute to raising global awareness about climate change and enhancing Pakistan’s international image.

Additionally, he stated that this initiative would bolster conservation efforts not only in Pakistan but also in all regions where snow leopards inhabit.

Koustubh Sharma, representing GSLEP, expressed gratitude to Pakistan for taking this impactful step, noting, “This initiative has the potential to greatly improve snow leopard conservation efforts.

There is still much work to be done ahead of COP 29, and we are committed to raising awareness and ensuring that representatives from participating countries are sensitized to the urgency of this issue.”