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Foreign ministers

Pakistan Joins Global Effort to Protect Marine Biodiversity in International Waters

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Pakistan has solidified its commitment to global environmental cooperation by joining the United Nations' BBNJ Agreement, a treaty aimed at ensuring the sustainable use of marine life in areas outside national borders. The country's involvement in the agreement reflects its growing interest in ocean health, particularly after its recent expansion of seabed territory and the establishment of marine protected areas such as Churna Island and Astola Island.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pakistan has officially signed the BBNJ Agreement, a treaty aimed at protecting marine biodiversity in international waters.
  • The agreement ensures fair sharing of marine genetic resources, supports the creation of marine protected areas, and promotes environmental impact assessments.
  • Pakistan played a leading role in the treaty's negotiations, pushing for fair benefit-sharing, marine technology transfer, and capacity-building principles.
  • The country has expanded its seabed territory by 50,000 square kilometers, and several marine protected areas have been established, including Churna Island and Astola Island.
  • The BBNJ treaty is expected to help countries work together to protect ocean life from threats like overfishing, pollution, and unregulated deep-sea mining.

Statistics:

  • Pakistan's seabed territory has increased by 50,000 square kilometers since 2015.
  • Churna Island, a vital marine biodiversity zone, was declared Pakistan's second marine protected area in 2020.
  • Astola Island is recognized for its rich coral life and wildlife, making it a crucial area for conservation efforts.
  • The BBNJ treaty addresses four main areas: fair sharing of marine genetic resources, creation of marine protected areas, environmental impact assessments, and sharing of marine science and technology.

Sources:

  • "Pakistan joins global pact to protect marine biodiversity" (exact as mentioned in the original text)
  • "UN approves Pakistan's request to expand its seabed territory by 50,000 square kilometers" (exact as mentioned in the original text)
  • "Churna Island declared Pakistan's second marine protected area" (exact as mentioned in the original text)
  • "Astola Island praised for its rich coral life and wildlife" (exact as mentioned in the original text)
  • "Pakistan's leadership role in global environmental governance highlighted" (exact as mentioned in the original text)

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