ISLAMABAD, July 25, 2025: In a significant move to address mounting climate challenges in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region, the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) signed a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday.
The agreement aims to foster cross-border research, policy cooperation, and sustainable development, especially for the fragile mountain ecosystems and vulnerable communities across the HKH.
Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director of SDPI, and Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD, signed the MoU in Islamabad. The seven-year partnership will remain effective until December 2030.
“This collaboration will help raise the voice of mountain communities on global platforms and guide climate-resilient development across borders,” said Dr. Suleri.
Dr. Gyamtsho described the initiative as a moral responsibility to protect the HKH, emphasizing that scientific expertise should lead regional efforts over conflict-driven divisions.
He added:
“We must not let regional conflicts overshadow our collective duty to safeguard this ecologically vital region.”
As part of the ceremony, souvenirs were presented to former federal minister Khurram Dastgir Khan, Romina Khurshid Alam (PM’s Coordinator on Climate Change), and Dr. Suleri, recognizing their leadership in advancing environmental diplomacy.
Romina Khurshid Alam stressed the importance of regional solidarity post-COP29, highlighting that climate challenges demand indigenous and collaborative solutions.
Former minister Khurram Dastgir Khan reflected on previous peace dialogues between Pakistan and India, noting that climate issues and glacier melt were common grounds for agreement.
“The dream of regional peace must start with shared environmental responsibility,” he said, warning of catastrophic consequences if glacier melt in the Upper Indus Basin — the world’s third pole — goes unchecked.
Key Areas of Cooperation Under the MoU:
Joint research on climate risks, youth outmigration, air pollution, and unplanned urbanization
Promotion of climate-smart agriculture, water security, energy innovation, urban planning, and eco-tourism
Policy dialogue across HKH countries focusing on inclusive governance and local adaptation strategies
Global advocacy for mountain communities at platforms like UNFCCC and COP summits
This partnership marks a renewed commitment to inclusive, research-driven solutions for one of the world’s most vulnerable mountain regions.
