Efforts on to declare snow leopard as global symbol of climate adaptation

Islamabad:The climate change ministry has stepped up efforts, in collaboration with 12 member countries of the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Programme, to designate the snow leopard as an international symbol of climate adaptation at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), said Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam on Tuesday.

During a meeting at the ministry here, Ms Alam outlined the steps of the initiative, including sending formal communications to the UNGA, the countries where snow leopards thrive, and key wildlife conservation organisations.

She said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would be closely involved to ensure a unified national approach. "We will launch global diplomatic efforts in coordination with snow leopard range states and institutions," she said, adding that Pakistan intends to present a strong case at the upcoming COP 29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November.

The aide to the PM emphasised the country’s longstanding 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 said.

Wildlife ambassador and emissary of the Global Snow Leopard Ecosystem Protection Programme Sardar Jamal Ahmad Khan Leghari praised Pakistan’s leadership in this initiative, working closely 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 the proposal by the United Nations. Pakistan’s voice on climate action will be stronger than ever on the global stage,” he said.

Snow Leopard Foundation director Dr Muhammad Ali Nawaz appreciated Pakistan for spearheading the global initiative and said the country was home to a significant population of snow leopards, many of which were highly vulnerable.

He expressed optimism that once the resolution was presented to the UN, it would greatly contribute to raising global awareness about climate change and improving Pakistan’s international image. Mr Nawaz said the initiative would enhance conservation efforts not only in Pakistan but also in all regions where snow leopards existed.

Koustubh Sharma of GSLEP expressed gratitude to Pakistan for taking such an impactful step. “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 sensitised to the urgency of this issue,” he said.