Urgent Call to Save Glaciers: Glaciers Preservation Conference in Tajikistan to Tackle Climate Crisis

The Glaciers Preservation Conference in Tajikistan comes at a critical moment for the world. Climate change is melting glaciers at an alarming rate, threatening water security, agriculture, and ecosystems. Tajikistan, home to over 10,000 glaciers, is leading the charge to find regional and global solutions through this impactful conference.

About the Glaciers Preservation Conference

The International Glaciers Preservation Conference, scheduled for May 29-31 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, is expected to attract experts from around the globe. According to Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tajikistan to Pakistan, Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir, this event will help raise awareness about climate change and the critical water issues confronting Central and South Asia.

Ambassador Toir said, “This three-day conference will pave the way for transformative action plans and global cooperation to tackle shared environmental challenges.”

Tajikistan’s Role as a Glacial Heartland

Tajikistan is often referred to as the “Water Tower of Central Asia”, with some of the world’s largest mountain glaciers, including the famous Fedchenko Glacier (Vanch-Yakh). It holds nearly 60% of the region’s freshwater resources.

With 93% of its land covered by majestic mountain ranges like the Tien Shan, Pamir, and Gissaro-Alai, Tajikistan is at the forefront of climate-induced glacial changes.

“Tajikistan is the land of glaciers and clean water. This conference is our ambitious attempt to build a global roadmap for climate resilience,” said the ambassador.

Pakistan’s Strong Participation and Support

Ambassador Sharifzoda confirmed that Pakistan is actively supporting this initiative. Pakistani representatives have been officially invited and will join experts in Dushanbe to share insights, propose solutions, and form alliances on climate-related action.

“Environmental challenges do not respect borders. Our collaboration with Pakistan is vital for long-term solutions,” he added.

This also aligns with Pakistan’s ongoing efforts through initiatives like Ten Billion Tree Tsunami and its active participation in COP summits.

What the Conference Will Cover

The conference agenda includes:

• Glacier melting trends and their global impact
• Climate change adaptation and mitigation
• Water management policies and sustainability
• Regional cooperation frameworks
• Scientific research and innovation for glacier monitoring

The outcomes are expected to result in a joint declaration and action plan, guiding both policy and grassroots movements.

Field Trip to Witness Glacier Degradation

One unique feature of this conference is the post-event field trip. Delegates will visit melting glaciers to observe:

• Glacier degradation in real-time
• Water resource management systems
• Successful local sustainable development models

This hands-on approach ensures that decision-makers see the urgency of climate change up close.

Environmental Unity Among Regional Countries

Ambassador Toir emphasized the need for regional unity due to the shared geography of Central and South Asia.

“Countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, and Tajikistan face similar environmental hazards. It’s time to form joint strategies and pool our scientific and technical resources.”

This sentiment reflects the UN’s SDG Goals, particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).

Preserving Culture Alongside Nature

Tajikistan isn’t only focusing on natural heritage. The ambassador highlighted how Modern Tajikistan also preserves its ancient crafts and architecture, from the Hisor Fortress to ancient Buddhist monasteries.

“Our culture and nature are deeply connected. As we protect glaciers, we also revive traditions and preserve our national identity,” he remarked.

This integrated approach strengthens tourism, education, and national pride, linking environmental and cultural preservation.

Conclusion: A Roadmap for Global Action

The Glaciers Preservation Conference is a powerful initiative to foster awareness, build alliances, and take practical steps to address the climate crisis. Tajikistan is emerging as a climate leader in the region, showing that even smaller nations can lead with big ambitions.

With countries like Pakistan standing in solidarity, the conference promises to become a milestone event in the global climate movement.

As the ambassador concluded:

“Tajikistan is not just a beautiful country with ancient history; it is a strategic hub for environmental innovation and a beacon of hope in the fight against climate change.”

External Resources

• UN Climate Change Conference
• Tajikistan Government Official Site
• Pakistan Ministry of Climate Change
• Fedchenko Glacier Overview – Wikipedia

Internal Links

• 10 Practical Ways to Combat Climate Change
• Pakistan’s Green Projects
• How Water Sustainability Affects Global Security