Pakistan is set to host a major climate conference in Islamabad on February 6-7. Almost 100 experts from around the world will gather to discuss climate challenges, solutions and funding. The event, part of DawnMedia’s ‘Breathe Pakistan’ initiative, aims to spark action and create a climate-resilient future.
Why this Conference Matters
Pakistan needs around $380 billion by 2030 to build climate resilience. However, the lack of global funding has slowed its progress. The country had aimed to cut emissions by 35% as part of its 2021 climate goals, but this was dependent on financial support from wealthier nations, which has not materialised.
DawnMedia CEO Nazafreen Saigol-Lakhani said the conference was necessary after COP29 in Baku failed to secure climate justice for countries like Pakistan. She emphasised that Pakistan must find solutions by mobilising its own resources and strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors.
Key Topics and Speakers
The two-day event at the Jinnah Convention Centre will include around fourteen sessions. Prominent speakers from Pakistan, the United Nations, global financial institutions and media organizations will participate.
The conference will begin with a session titled “The World, Pakistan & Provinces in Climate Change,” featuring President Asif Ali Zardari via video message. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s chief ministers and representatives from the UN and World Bank will also attend.
Other major discussions will include former Supreme Court Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, ex-State Bank governors Shamshad Akhtar and Salim Raza. It will also include a conversation between former climate minister Sherry Rehman and LUMS Vice Chancellor Ali Cheema.
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Regional Climate Cooperation
The final session on day one, “The South Asian Symposium on Climate Change,” will focus on regional issues. Experts will discuss air pollution, sustainable development and melting glaciers in the Hindu Kush Himalaya. Climate activist Harjeet Singh highlighted that South Asian countries share environmental challenges and must work together to tackle them.
Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) Executive Director Dr. Abid Suleri stressed that climate change requires collaboration across multiple sectors. He believes the Breathe Pakistan conference will help align Pakistan’s policies with global climate efforts.
The Role of Media and Education
A key highlight will be the ‘Media and Climate Change’ panel, featuring journalists from Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bangladesh and the UK. Discussions will explore how media can shape climate awareness and advocacy.
The conference will also cover women’s role in fighting climate change and the importance of climate education for young people. The event will conclude with the adoption of the Breathe Pakistan Conference resolution.
Moving Towards Climate Action
DawnMedia CEO Saigol-Lakhani said the ultimate goal is to find and implement solutions to reduce climate change’s impact. She sees the conference as the first step in an ongoing effort to engage policymakers, businesses and communities.
Harjeet Singh believes that collaboration between governments, civil society, academics and media is essential for meaningful climate action. Dr Suleri also emphasised that regional cooperation must lead to concrete policies and lasting commitments.
The success of this initiative will depend on turning discussions into real action. By working together, Pakistan and its neighbours can build a more sustainable future.
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