Dushanbe to Host Key Talks on Glacial Melting and Water Security
APP
Islamabad: The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Tajikistan to Pakistan, Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir, has said that the upcoming International Glaciers Preservation Conference in Tajikistan will serve as a vital platform to raise awareness about the pressing challenges of climate change and water sustainability facing the region.
Speaking to APP on Sunday, the ambassador highlighted that the three-day conference, scheduled from May 29 to 31 in Dushanbe, aims to bring together regional and international experts to deliberate on shared environmental threats and develop a joint action plan for the future.
“Climate change and environmental degradation pose serious threats to all countries in our region,” Ambassador Sharifzoda said. “This conference will help create common understanding and collaborative strategies to address these issues effectively.”
The envoy confirmed that Pakistan, along with other regional nations, has been invited and is actively participating in the high-level dialogue. He emphasized that countries in the region, due to their shared geography and interconnected mountain systems, face similar environmental challenges which require a unified response.
“Tajikistan, home to over 10,000 mountain glaciers—including the Fedchenko Glacier, the largest in the region—is committed to leading efforts in glaciers preservation and water resource management,” he added. “Melting glaciers and water scarcity are not only regional issues but global challenges that demand urgent action.”
Ambassador Sharifzoda noted that this will be the third international conference of its kind hosted by Tajikistan and is part of the country’s broader initiative for sustainable water and climate policies. He praised the Government of Pakistan for its active support and collaboration in this initiative.
A special post-conference field visit is also planned, where participants will witness glacier degradation firsthand, alongside demonstrations of integrated water resource management and sustainable development practices in Tajikistan.
In addition to the environmental agenda, the ambassador spoke of Tajikistan’s cultural heritage. “Modern Tajikistan preserves its rich historical and cultural traditions—from ancient cities to renowned craft dynasties of silk weaving, embroidery, ceramics, and jewelry, which continue to thrive today,” he said.
He added that monuments like the Hisor Fortress, the Khoja Mashhad mausoleum, and the remains of Buddhist monasteries from the 7th and 8th centuries offer insights into Tajikistan’s deep-rooted historical legacy.
Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Sharifzoda noted that 93 percent of Tajikistan’s territory is mountainous, including some of the world’s highest ranges such as the Tien Shan, Pamir, and Gissaro-Alai.
He said the conference represents a unique opportunity for the global community to unite in promoting sustainable, glacier-focused environmental action and to commit to preserving natural ecosystems for future generations.
