COP 22

Pakistan ratified the Paris agreement on November 4, 2016, and became the 104th country to ratify the agreement. The country’s ratification is in line with its firm commitment to the purposes and objectives of the UN Climate Change Conference. It also highlights the resolve of the government to remain fully committed to the implementation of the Paris Agreement. The first session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) serving as the meeting of the parties to the Paris Agreement is underway in Marrakech in conjunction with COP 22. Pakistan intends to submit its long-awaited National Determined Contribution (NDC) before the meeting. In a span of about nine months, some 94 countries have also ratified the Paris Agreement.

On account of severe droughts, flash floods, and GLOFs because of melting glaciers experienced in recent years, Pakistan is regarded as one the most vulnerable country exposed to the vagaries of climate change. Since our stakes are high, our engagement level should also be high in COP 22 meeting at Marrakech and we should commit voluntary emission reductions subject to international support.

Khan Faraz

Peshawar