Pakistan's Foreign Minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, delivered a significant address at the 3rd China-Tibet Trans-Himalayan Forum held in Nyingchi, Tibet Autonomous Region, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

The forum, with a focus on "Ecological Civilization and Environmental Protection," saw Foreign Minister Jilani highlighting the importance of ecological diversity and environmental preservation.

Expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality of Tibet, known as the "Roof of the World," Jilani emphasised Tibet's unique ecosystem as vital to maintaining the ecological balance of our planet.

Foreign Minister Jilani highlighted the critical role of ecological diversity in shaping human civilization and noted that Earth's biological resources are essential for our economic and social development. He drew attention to the alarming loss of ecological diversity, which some experts view as the beginning of the 6th mass extinction of biodiversity on Earth.

While addressing the forum, he said: “Mother Nature has blessed planet earth with ecological diversity which constitute the foundation of human civilisation. The earth's biological resources are vital to humanity's economic and social development and a global asset for the present and future generations. This diversity adds richness to life, makes it meaningful and ensures that the great journey of life progresses steadily unfettered from the fear of extinction.”

“The intricate jigsaw of life, perfected over course of millennia, however, has been thrown into disarray and disorder due to anthropogenic activities. The loss of ecological diversity is so alarming that some experts view it as a beginning of the 6th mass extinction of biodiversity on earth,” he added.

Faced with these challenges, Jilani stressed the need for humanity to act collectively and systematically to reverse this decline and develop a sustainable relationship between humans and nature.

Pakistan's commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection was highlighted, with Jilani mentioning investments in renewable energy, forest conservation, and sustainable agriculture. He lauded China's successes and initiatives in these areas, particularly in addressing climate change and green development.

Foreign Minister jilani said, “Pakistan recognises the importance of sustainable development and the need to strike a harmonious balance between economic growth and environmental protection. We are investing in renewable energy sources, enhancing our forest cover, and adopting sustainable agricultural practices.”

“In our quest for ensuring environmental protection, we are guided by the China’s successes and initiatives,” he added.

Pakistan and China's joint efforts in environmental protection were underscored, including the launch of the China-Pakistan Green Corridor to formalise bilateral cooperation. Both countries are focusing on renewable energy projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and various fields under the Global Development Initiative (GDI) in alignment with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, highlighted Foreign Minister Jilani.

Foreign Minister Jilani also shed light on the Himalayas region, saying: “The Himalayas are not just a geographical entity; but also, a cultural and ecological treasure. They serve as a constant reminder of both beauty and fragility of our planet. Going forward, Tibet and Himalayan region could become a symbol of our collective endeavours for restoring ecological balance and preserving pristine beauty and diversity of mother nature.”

While concluding the address, Foreign Minister Jilani stressed on the preservation of both human civilization and the diversity of life on Earth, highlighting that the world's existence can endure only if this diversity is safeguarded.

China's Foreign Minister, in an address, highlighted the Himalayas as a region of unparalleled significance, boasting the world's highest altitudes, a unique ecological environment, rich species diversity, diverse cultures, and a profound history. The minister emphasized that the Himalayan region is a land brimming with vitality and hope.

Chinese Foreign Minister’s vision on ecological civilization

China has been actively engaged in promoting cooperation within the "Rim of the Himalayas" International Cooperation Forum. This collaboration aligns with China's commitment to Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, particularly emphasizing Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization.

One significant aspect of China's engagement in the Himalayan region has been its efforts to bolster regional economic and social development while enhancing ecological and environmental governance. The minister emphasized the importance of continuous consensus-building on cooperation.

While addressing the forum, he said: “We have continuously built consensus on cooperation and signed environmental protection cooperation agreements with India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and other countries.  Last week, during Nepali Prime Minister Prachanda's visit to China, China and Nepal signed a memorandum of understanding on green and low-carbon development cooperation.”

He also said that China has actively championed green development and initiated various cooperation projects in the Himalayan region. These projects encompass clean energy, water conservancy, sewage treatment, forest protection, and climate change response, all aimed at fostering sustainable growth and environmental protection.

Foreign Minister Jilani's speech at the 3rd China-Tibet Trans-Himalayan Forum highlights the vital role of international teamwork in tackling worldwide environmental issues and advancing sustainable progress. It also emphasises China's strong commitment to the Himalayan region, focusing on cooperation that not only benefits the involved nations but also has a positive impact on the global environment.

The principles of Xi Jinping's vision regarding ecological civilization are at the heart of China's engagement in the Himalayas. This approach instills hope for a greener and more sustainable future in the region, aligning with Pakistan's interests and aspirations for a cleaner and healthier environment.