A Global Call for Climate Action at the ECO Summit
As Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrives in Azerbaijan for the 17th summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), the urgency of addressing climate change has never been more pressing. The effects of climate change are no longer distant threats—they are daily realities, particularly for countries like Pakistan. From devastating monsoons to scorching heatwaves and hazardous winters, the nation is experiencing a new normal that demands immediate and sustained action.
The theme of this year’s summit—New ECO Vision for a Sustainable and Climate Resilient Future—could not be more relevant. It highlights the need for a forward-looking approach that prioritizes environmental sustainability and resilience. For many nations, especially those in the developing world, this vision is not just a goal but a necessity for survival.
Pakistan is already reeling from the consequences of climate inaction. Infrastructure is under immense pressure from extreme weather events, agricultural productivity is declining due to erratic rainfall and rising temperatures, and air quality is deteriorating, posing serious health risks. The country’s healthcare system is struggling to cope with the growing burden of climate-related illnesses. These challenges underscore the critical need for urgent interventions before the situation spirals out of control.
However, climate change is not a problem confined to one nation. It is a global crisis that requires collective efforts on an unprecedented scale. While individual actions and local initiatives play a role, they must be complemented by large-scale, coordinated strategies. Technological innovations and greener policies offer promising pathways, but their effectiveness hinges on international cooperation. Without a unified commitment, these solutions may fail to make a meaningful impact.
Narrow national interests and concerns about economic costs must not hinder progress. The world needs a new model of governance—one that fosters collaboration, encourages bold leadership, and drives decisive action. The ECO summit presents an important opportunity to strengthen regional partnerships and advance a shared climate agenda. By working together, member states can create a more resilient and sustainable future.
Prime Minister Sharif has long been a vocal advocate for Pakistan’s climate concerns on the global stage, including at major international conferences such as the COP meetings. At this summit, he has a unique opportunity to build on that legacy by championing regional solutions and reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to a collective climate response. His leadership will be crucial in shaping the direction of the ECO’s climate agenda and ensuring that the voices of vulnerable nations are heard.
The stakes could not be higher. For Pakistan, the consequences of inaction are dire, both environmentally and economically. For the planet as a whole, the window for meaningful intervention is rapidly closing. The ECO summit represents a pivotal moment for global leaders to come together, set ambitious goals, and commit to actionable steps that will protect both people and the environment for generations to come.
