The COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan matters the most for Pakistan as one of the most affected countries at the hand of climate change disasters. The event provided a platform for global leaders to reach a finance deal for developing nations. For Pakistan, a country with a fragile economy and a population frequently hit by floods, heatwaves, and other climate-related calamities, its future depends on the outcomes of such global negotiations.
The summit sadly did not hit the global spotlight as no significance Western country attended the moot. UN climate chief Simon Stiell mainly addressed the West, urging them to set aside theatrics and focus on delivering results. The summit’s primary goal was to secure $1 trillion annually by 2030 to help developing nations, including Pakistan, combat climate change.
Pakistan has not secured the promised financial pledges made at similar moots in the previous years. Climate shocked devastate millions annually. Pakistan experienced one of its worst climate disasters in 2022, when floods affected over 33 million people. However, the current pledge of $100 billion per year from developed nations is too little to meet the needs of climate-hit countries. Pakistan needs substantial support, especially as independent estimates suggest developing nations will need $1 trillion annually by decade’s end.
The moot criticized Saudi Arabia and other countries for stalling progress on fossil fuel commitments. Moving away from fossil fuels is crucial for Pakistan. Sadly, the PML-N government in its 2013-2018 tenure installed coal-fired power plants, mainly operated by Chinese companies. Transitioning to renewables like solar, wind, and hydropower can not only reduce emissions but also lower energy costs.
To address climate challenges, Pakistan must focus on secure international funds to invest in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and resilient infrastructure.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the role of G20 nations in ensuring the success of COP29. Pakistan must advocate for increased funding and push for fair climate policies. Without urgent action, the gap between promises and reality will widen, leaving vulnerable nations like Pakistan to bear the brunt of global inaction.
The world’s response at COP29 will decide the safety and future of billions, including Pakistanis who face life-threatening disasters every year. *