Pakistan has called on India to resume cooperation under the Indus Waters Treaty, stressing that shared rivers must foster collaboration, not disputes. Ambassador Asim highlighted the critical link between water-sharing conflicts and climate vulnerability, emphasizing the need for predictable, grant-based funding for climate and biodiversity projects.
Pakistan emphasized that universal platforms guided by common but differentiated responsibility are essential to manage shared resources sustainably. Ambassador Asim also noted the gap in climate finance for conflict-affected countries, receiving just $2 per capita compared to $162 in stable nations.
Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, warned that conflict-induced environmental damage worsens hunger, disease, and displacement. She cited Gaza and Haiti as examples of severe vegetation and soil degradation, while extreme weather linked to climate change increases humanitarian risks.
Officials stressed civilian protection, prevention of environmental harm during conflicts, and stronger UN coordination with regional and international bodies. They highlighted the importance of building technical capacity in vulnerable countries to manage water and natural resources sustainably.
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