New York, August 25, 2025, 03:51 AM PKT
Pakistan is intensifying its efforts at the United Nations for the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement as of August 24, 2025. The primary focus is on equitable resource sharing, a vital aspect of the marine biodiversity treaty.
Since taking over as chair of the Group of 77 on July 22, Pakistan has been advocating for stronger commitments to protect global oceans and safeguard the interests of developing nations.
Foreign Minister’s Call for Shared Ocean Heritage
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addressed the UN session, emphasizing the need for fair access to marine genetic resources and technology transfers. His remarks reflect Pakistan’s stance in the Foreign Office on these essential negotiations.
“The ocean’s wealth is humanity’s shared heritage,” Dar stated to NEN, highlighting Pakistan’s active participation in discussions on the marine biodiversity treaty.
BBNJ Agreement: Structure and Goals
The BBNJ Agreement, part of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), plans to implement critical ocean protection measures through these key mechanisms:
- Establishing marine protected areas in international waters
- Mandatory environmental impact assessments for ocean activities
- Addressing overfishing and marine pollution
- Equitable sharing of marine genetic resources
These provisions are essential for coastal countries like Pakistan, which rely on sustainable ocean resources for economic growth.
Pakistan’s Marine Conservation Initiatives
In line with treaty advancements, Pakistan has designated Churna and Astola Islands as marine protected areas, demonstrating its dedication to ocean conservation beyond diplomatic measures.
Experts from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states virtually contributed to the UN session. They praised Pakistan’s focus on capacity-building to support small-scale fisheries in developing nations.
Next Steps in Treaty Implementation
The upcoming UN session in 2026 will focus on developing final implementation protocols for the marine biodiversity treaty. Comprehensive mechanisms for the global enforcement of the agreement’s provisions will be detailed.
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