Shamakhi, Azerbaijan,Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Musadik Malik, participated in the Heads of Delegations Retreat held in Shamakhi, Azerbaijan, as part of preparations for the upcoming COP31, scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye, in November 2026.
The Retreat provided an important platform for participating countries to exchange views on the priorities, agenda, and key areas of focus for COP31.
On the sidelines of the Retreat, Dr. Musadik Malik held bilateral meetings with Deputy Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Mr. Yalchin Rafiyev, Deputy Minister for Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change of Türkiye Ms. Fatma Varank, and Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry of Kenya, Dr. Deborah M. Barasa.
During his meeting with the Kenyan delegation, Dr. Musadik Malik held detailed discussions on developing a new vision for Margalla Hills National Park and revitalising the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), drawing on the experience and model of Nairobi National Park.
The Kenyan side expressed its willingness to support Pakistan in advancing these initiatives. Both sides agreed to move towards formalising cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at facilitating institutional collaboration and the adoption of best practices in wildlife and protected-area management.
During his meeting with Azerbaijan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mr. Yalchin Rafiyev, Dr. Musadik Malik discussed the future of climate diplomacy and priorities for the agenda of COP31. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to mutual support and agreed to work towards strengthening cooperation on climate-related issues at international forums.
The Federal Minister conveyed the warmest regards of the Prime Minister of Pakistan to His Excellency the President of Azerbaijan and the First Lady. The Deputy Foreign Minister reciprocated the sentiments and conveyed his warm regards to the leadership and people of Pakistan.
Dr. Musadik Malik also held discussions with Türkiye’s Deputy Minister for Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change Ms. Fatma Varank on Pakistan-Türkiye cooperation in advancing climate action.
The Federal Minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to constructive international climate diplomacy.
