- Pre-COP31 Dialogue at ISSI Highlights Arctic–Himalayan Collaboration, Green Innovation and Climate Resilience
ISLAMABAD, 27 October 2026: Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Senator Dr. Musadik Malik, has called for stronger international cooperation in glacier research, climate innovation and equitable climate financing, emphasising the urgent need for practical solutions to address the growing threats posed by climate change.
He made these remarks at a Pre-COP31 Dialogue titled “From Paris to Antalya: Building Bridges Between the Arctic and the Hindu Kush-Karakoram-Himalaya Region,” held at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI). The event brought together diplomats, policymakers, researchers and climate experts to discuss shared challenges and strengthen cooperation ahead of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31).
Dr. Musadik Malik Urges Action Beyond Climate Commitments
Highlighting the devastating consequences of glacier retreat for vulnerable communities, Dr. Malik stressed that climate finance remained disproportionately concentrated in major emitting economies, limiting the resources available to climate-vulnerable countries.
He proposed establishing a Green Virtual University to promote international scientific collaboration, dedicated financing mechanisms for green technology start-ups, and a Green Cloud to provide broader access to publicly funded scientific research.
The minister urged the international community to move beyond declarations and commitments towards tangible cooperation, innovative financing and practical measures that deliver meaningful climate action.
ISSI Highlights Threats to Pakistan’s Water, Food and Energy Security
In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Moin ul Haque, Director General of ISSI, underscored the serious implications of glacier loss for Pakistan’s water availability, food security and energy supplies.
He called for stronger institutional collaboration between Arctic and Hindu Kush-Karakoram-Himalaya (HKH) research institutions, stressing the importance of greater international recognition of risks associated with the cryosphere—the frozen parts of the Earth, including glaciers, snow and ice.
France, Türkiye and Pakistan Emphasise Climate Partnerships
Ms. Aisha Khan, Chief Executive of CSCCC, advocated the development of a stronger international framework for cryosphere protection, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to safeguard vulnerable regions.
Mr. Jean-Charles Allard, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of France, reaffirmed France’s commitment to international climate cooperation and scientific research.
Mr. Berk Ece, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Türkiye, highlighted COP31’s emphasis on implementation, climate finance and the transition towards clean energy.
Meanwhile, Mr. Umer Siddique, Director General (UN) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasised the importance of accessible adaptation financing, adequate support for addressing climate-related loss and damage, and cross-border scientific data sharing.
Experts Call for Glacier Monitoring and Stronger Disaster Preparedness
During the panel discussion, Ambassador Shafqat Kakakhel, Chair of the Board of Directors of CSCCC; Mr. Purushottam Dhungel, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Nepal; Mr. Amir Khan Goraya, CEO of the National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF); Dr. Faisal Mueen Qamer of ICIMOD; and Dr. Pascal Emmanuel Egli of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology explored opportunities for regional and international cooperation.
The discussion focused on strengthening glacier monitoring systems, improving early warning mechanisms, enhancing disaster preparedness and building community resilience against climate-related hazards.
Participants highlighted the importance of sharing scientific knowledge, strengthening institutional partnerships and translating research findings into effective measures to protect vulnerable populations.
ISSI Calls for Climate Resilience in National Development Planning
In his concluding remarks, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of the Board of Governors of ISSI, stressed the need to integrate climate resilience into national development planning, strengthen domestic institutions and ensure that scientific research informs practical policymaking.
He underscored the importance of coordinated action among governments, research institutions and international partners to address the mounting challenges associated with glacier retreat and broader climate change.
ISSI Dialogue Strengthens Momentum Ahead of COP31
The dialogue was jointly organised by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, CSCCC and the Embassy of France. It provided a platform for constructive exchanges among diplomatic representatives, government officials, scientists and climate specialists on advancing cooperation between the Arctic and the Hindu Kush-Karakoram-Himalaya regions.
The discussions reinforced the importance of international scientific partnerships, equitable climate finance and practical policy measures to protect glaciers, strengthen climate resilience and safeguard the livelihoods of communities increasingly exposed to the impacts of global warming.
BY: The Times Union
