Islamabad / Cairo – Two significant meetings this week highlighted international cooperation on climate finance and cultural heritage preservation.
In Islamabad, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, met with H.E. Mohamed Nasheed, Secretary General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum & Vulnerable 20 (CVF-V20). The meeting centered around collaborative efforts to address climate challenges and advance Pakistan’s Climate Prosperity Plan (CPP). Minister Aurangzeb welcomed the CVF Secretariat’s visit and appreciated the progress on joint initiatives aimed at identifying financing opportunities for critical climate projects.
He informed the delegation about Pakistan’s recently agreed decade-long Country Partnership Framework (CPF) with the World Bank, emphasizing that four of its six core outcomes focus on climate change and population—two of Pakistan’s most pressing issues. Additionally, he shared insights on Pakistan’s participation in the IMF’s Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), aimed at enhancing climate resilience. The minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to finalize CPP projects and adopt a phased financing approach in collaboration with international partners.
Meanwhile, in Cairo, the General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) took part in the 9th edition of the International Committee for the Preservation of Human Historical Heritage, held at the League of Arab States’ headquarters on April 20, 2025.
The meeting spotlighted the challenges facing cultural heritage across Member States, particularly in Palestine, amid ongoing conflict. Dr. Rami Anchassi, representing the OIC General Secretariat, underscored the organization’s continued commitment to heritage preservation, as mandated by various ministerial resolutions. He highlighted Resolution No. 50/10-C from the 50th OIC Foreign Ministers’ Session in Cameroon, which supports the establishment of an OIC Platform for Cultural Heritage Protection.
Dr. Anchassi also proposed organizing a joint international conference to address cultural preservation in conflict zones. The initiative received strong support from committee members, with the State of Qatar expressing willingness to collaborate through its Ministry of Culture, alongside the Arab League and other regional partners.
These developments underscore the growing momentum for multilateral cooperation in confronting climate threats and safeguarding global heritage.
