Parliamentary Panel Seeks Report from Climate Ministry on COP29 Outcomes

The Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change Thursday sought a comprehensive report from the Ministry of Climate Change on COP29 outcomes, including financial commitments and Pakistan’s share of the $300 billion pledged globally for climate finance.  Chairing the meeting, Senator Sherry Rehman addressed Pakistan’s role at COP29, global climate finance challenges, and the pressing environmental crisis surrounding Rawal Dam. She expressed concerns over global outcomes at COP29, which did not focus on substantial outcomes for any developing country.  She expressed surprise at the first-time exclusion of parliamentary committees from the conference, calling it an “egregious lapse.” She stated, “COP29 negotiations are crucial for global climate governance, yet despite our large stake in creating this Fund there was no traction on Loss and Damage mechanisms or any significant outcomes for all such vulnerable countries.”  She called for a comprehensive report on COP29 outcomes, including financial commitments and Pakistan’s share of the $300 billion pledged globally for climate finance. She emphasized that the $300 billion is “a drop in the ocean” compared to the $1.3 trillion identified by the UN as necessary to address global climate finance gaps.  The committee also raised concerns about the lack of information regarding the delegation’s composition and purpose. Senator Manzoor Ahmed inquired about the number of Ministry of Climate Change officials who participated, while Senator Rehman questioned the accreditation of hundreds of individuals without clear roles or outcomes.  The MoCC&EC Secretary provided updates on the Carbon Market Policy, stating that guidelines have been approved and work is ongoing on related rules.  Sherry Rehman mentioned that the carbon market policy was initiated during her tenure as minister, and the team at that time, led by Syeda Hadika Jamshaid, Carbon Market Advisor, worked diligently to develop its content. She emphasized that considerable effort went into ensuring that the carbon markets were established in Pakistan through a collective approach involving the provinces.  In response to the deteriorating condition of Rawal Dam, a sub committee was formed to conduct detailed deliberations on illegal construction and pollution in the area.  Senator Rehman noted that “Rawal Dam is a pivotal water source for Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Its neglect is unacceptable and poses severe risks to public health.” She emphasized that relevant departments must be held accountable, and no NOC would be granted for activities near the dam until it is cleaned and maintained to acceptable standards.