Islamabad: Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr. Musadik Malik has underscored the need for enhanced Pakistan-China cooperation on climate research, glacier protection, and sustainable development. He was addressing the 5th China Xizang Trans-Himalaya Forum in China today.

According to Radio Pakistan, Musadik Malik warned that climate change poses an existential threat to the region's natural resources and communities. The Minister highlighted that Pakistan is home to approximately 13,500 glaciers, which are crucial to the country's civilization, water security, and ecological balance.

He cautioned that these glaciers are increasingly threatened by rising greenhouse gas emissions, which are accelerating global warming and glacier melt. The resulting floods and droughts have become more severe, with around 6,000 people losing their lives in recent flood disasters in Pakistan.

The Minister emphasized the need to expand scientific collaboration on glacier conservation and climate change. He proposed establishing a virtual green university to unite researchers and institutions across the region for joint climate research. Musadik Malik noted that the Trans-Himalaya Forum provides an essential platform for expanding bilateral cooperation and unlocking new opportunities for sustainable regional development.