The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad hosted a pre-COP31 dialogue on 26 October titled “From Paris to Antalya: Building Bridges Between the Arctic and the Hindu Kush-Karakoram-Himalaya Region”. The Embassy of France, the CSCCC, and the ISSI jointly organised the event.
Ambassador Moin ul Haque, Director General, stated that the loss of glaciers has consequences for Pakistan’s food, water, and energy security. Moin called for greater international recognition of risks related to the cryosphere and urged stronger cooperation between institutions in the Arctic and the HKH region.
Dr Musadik Malik, Federal Minister for Climate Change, advocated for equitable climate financing alongside international cooperation on climate innovation and glacier research. Ms. Aisha Khan argued for a more robust international framework to protect the cryosphere.
Mr. Jean-Charles Allard reaffirmed that France remains committed to scientific research and climate cooperation. Berk Ece noted that COP31 will focus on clean energy transition, climate finance, and implementation.
Umer Siddique emphasised the need for transboundary data sharing, loss and damage support, and accessible adaptation finance. Ambassador Khalid Mahmood stressed the importance of translating scientific research into practical policies while strengthening domestic institutions and integrating climate resilience into national development planning.
