Pakistan and Tajikistan on Thursday underscored the need for enhanced regional cooperation to address shared environmental challenges, including climate change, glacial melt, water management and wildlife conservation.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr. Musadik Masood Malik and Tajik Ambassador Yusuf Sharifzoda in Islamabad.
During the meeting, both sides discussed matters of mutual cooperation in the fields of climate change, water, wildlife protection and regional connectivity.
The discussions particularly focused on the upcoming 4th High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” (2018–2028), scheduled to be held in Dushanbe, where Dr. Musadik Malik expected to represent the Prime Minister of Pakistan.
Ambassador Yusuf Sharifzoda said Pakistan and Tajikistan shared many geographical and environmental similarities, noting that both countries host nearly 13,000 glaciers each and have already lost around 1,000 glaciers due to the impacts of climate change and the passage of time.
He stressed the need for stronger regional collaboration to tackle the growing environmental threats posed by glacial melt.
The ambassador further highlighted that several protected wildlife species, including markhor, snow leopards, ibex and various migratory birds, were found in both countries.
He said Tajikistan had established protected valleys and conservation zones for the preservation of these species and emphasized the importance of joint cooperation between the two countries in wildlife protection, including through formal agreements and memorandums of understanding.
Dr. Musadik Malik said energy, water and climate were intrinsically interconnected and emphasized that regional countries must work together to address shared environmental challenges.
He expressed Pakistan’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Tajikistan in the fields of climate resilience, water management, wildlife conservation and sustainable development.
The minister also expressed interest in establishing a regional corridor between Pakistan and Tajikistan focused not only on climate and wildlife cooperation but also on enhancing broader trade and regional connectivity.
During the discussion, Ambassador Yusuf Sharifzoda also spoke about the potential for future collaboration in utilizing regional weather patterns and innovative solutions aimed at improving water and climate management.
The ambassador remarked that the people of Pakistan and Tajikistan shared deep historical, cultural and civilizational roots despite being separated by borders.
Dr. Musadik Malik reaffirmed the strong brotherly ties between the two countries and expressed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation.
