COP29: A Beacon of Hope for Pakistan’s Climate Future

As the world gears up for COP29, Pakistan faces an urgent climate crisis that demands immediate global action. COP29 offers a pivotal opportunity for Pakistan to address climate challenges, given that extreme weather events are increasingly devastating the country. At this critical juncture, COP29 stands as a beacon of hope for Pakistan to strengthen its climate diplomacy and mobilize crucial support to combat climate change effectively.

What is COP? Understanding the Significance of COP29

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the supreme decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). COP29 serves as a platform for countries to come together, assess global progress, and negotiate commitments aimed at tackling the escalating climate crisis. With COP29, the primary objective remains to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and to strive to cap it at 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.

This year, COP29 will convene in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024, where world leaders will continue negotiations to advance the global climate agenda, aiming to establish new pathways toward sustainability and resilience.

The COP29 Agenda: A Focus on Climate Action and Finance

Hosted in Baku, COP29 will bring together world leaders, negotiators, climate activists, and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss and finalize critical climate actions. The COP29 agenda focuses on implementing the Paris Agreement and advancing discussions on climate finance, technology transfer, adaptation, and the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund. There will be specific attention on COP29’s role in accelerating the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy, improving resilience in vulnerable nations, and enhancing financing mechanisms for climate projects, especially in the Global South.

As a developing country highly vulnerable to climate impacts, Pakistan will use COP29 to advocate for urgent financial support to mitigate and adapt to climate-related disasters like floods and droughts, which disproportionately impact its population. COP29 will also provide Pakistan with a crucial platform to strengthen climate diplomacy, build partnerships, and champion global climate justice.

Pakistan’s Climate Profile: Why COP29 Matters

Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change impacts, despite contributing less than 1% to global carbon emissions. COP29 is a critical moment for Pakistan, as the nation has been battered by extreme weather events, including severe flooding, heatwaves, droughts, and rapid glacial melt. The geographic layout of Pakistan—ranging from vast river systems to high-altitude mountains—makes it susceptible to diverse climate risks.

Erratic monsoon patterns have increasingly led to devastating floods, most notably in 2022, when over 33 million people were affected and economic losses surpassed $30 billion. COP29 represents a prime opportunity for Pakistan to underscore the urgency of addressing these climate risks and to rally for robust financial backing for climate resilience.

Pakistan’s Role at COP28 and its Commitments for COP29

At COP28, Pakistan demonstrated its commitment to global climate action, with a strong delegation led by Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Ahmed Irfan Aslam. Pakistan played a significant role in the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund, a vital financial mechanism addressing climate-induced losses. COP29 will allow Pakistan to further these achievements and advocate for continued financial support, particularly for adaptation projects crucial to the country’s climate resilience.

During COP28, Pakistan’s initiatives included launching the “Living Indus Initiative” and the “Recharge Pakistan” project, funded by the Green Climate Fund, USAID, and the Coca-Cola Foundation. COP29 will provide an opportunity to highlight these projects and secure more support for similar nature-based adaptation solutions. Additionally, Pakistan engaged the private sector with pledges amounting to $750 billion for climate financing, showcasing its potential to attract private investments for green development.

Pakistan’s Preparations for COP29: Advancing Green Growth and Climate Diplomacy

As COP29 approaches, Pakistan is focused on strengthening climate adaptation strategies, securing additional funding for resilience-building projects, and promoting sustainable green growth. The government is placing significant emphasis on participating in climate finance, particularly for adaptation efforts, while advocating for global cooperation to combat climate change.

Pakistan is also pushing for a transition to green energy and is working on policy frameworks that support this shift. COP29 provides Pakistan with an opportunity to partner with global entities, including Business 20 (B20) countries, to develop regional solutions for climate challenges and attract investments in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. Pakistan’s Ministry of Climate Change has launched several initiatives, including finalizing the 2023 National Adaptation Plan, aimed at creating a climate-resilient Pakistan through sustainable practices, green jobs, and technology.

Potential Outcomes for Pakistan from COP29: Securing Financial Support and Global Recognition

COP29 holds the potential to significantly shape Pakistan’s climate policy and elevate its role in global climate negotiations. One of the most anticipated outcomes for Pakistan is the continued operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund, which could lead to increased financial support for the country’s adaptation and disaster response efforts.

Through COP29, Pakistan may secure new commitments for climate financing from both public and private sector channels. With a focus on renewable energy and reducing fossil fuel dependency, Pakistan could gain investments critical to its energy transition. Discussions around carbon markets and climate finance for developing nations are also expected to gain momentum at COP29, enabling Pakistan to access carbon markets and benefit from carbon credit trading.

COP29 also offers Pakistan the opportunity to solidify its leadership in climate diplomacy, advocating for the interests of developing nations affected by climate change despite minimal contributions to global emissions. Pakistan’s proactive stance at COP29 can strengthen its position in international forums, ensuring that the nation receives fair and equitable support in the global fight against climate change.

COP29: Paving the Way for a Climate-Resilient Pakistan

COP29 is a pivotal moment for Pakistan to advance its climate agenda, secure essential financial support for adaptation projects, and contribute to shaping the future of global climate action. By focusing on both local and national strategies and fostering international collaboration, COP29 could help ensure a climate-resilient future for Pakistan and the wider region.