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Pakistan scored a significant diplomatic win at the United Nations Environment Program’s (UNEP) negotiating committee on plastic pollution, as 46 countries handed over the chairmanship of the next meeting to Federal Minister for Climate Change, Mosaddiq Malik.
The development marked a setback for India, whose delegation walked out of the session in protest after the announcement. However, no member state followed the Indian exit, signaling broad support for Pakistan’s leadership role in the global environmental forum.
In his address, Minister Mosaddiq Malik stressed that developing nations must not be treated as voiceless participants in climate and pollution negotiations. He emphasized the need for a clear and comprehensive framework, not only on plastic waste but also on related issues such as deforestation.
Malik strongly criticized developed countries for generating the bulk of plastic pollution while resisting financial commitments. “Developing countries lack resources to deal with the consequences of climate change,” he said, urging wealthier nations to take responsibility.
He called for the creation of a global fund dedicated to plastic recycling, arguing that meaningful progress cannot be achieved without equitable financing. The proposal was welcomed by several like-minded nations present at the talks, who praised Pakistan’s assertive stance.
The successful chairmanship handover reinforces Pakistan’s growing role in shaping global environmental policies, particularly at a time when climate challenges disproportionately affect the developing world.
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This development also reflects the widening diplomatic friction between Pakistan and India on international platforms, with New Delhi’s walkout highlighting its dissatisfaction but failing to sway other participants.
