Breathe Pakistan: Minister Musadik Malik calls for investing in youth-led climate projects

The second edition of The Breathe Pakistan International Climate Change Conference, organised by Dawn Media, is currently underway in Islamabad. Despite contributing minimally to global emissions, Pakistan remains among the most climate-vulnerable nations, underscoring the critical need for coordinated, locally grounded, and globally informed responses. The two-day conference brings together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders from across sectors to examine intersecting challenges and chart a path forward. The first edition of Breathe Pakistan sparked national dialogue and global collaboration around vital climate challenges — from climate justice and finance to renewable energy transitions, disaster risk reduction, and inclusive public-private partnerships. View the full agenda here. 2:26pm — Water management no longer optional but a necessity: minister Water Resources Minister Mian Muhammad Mueen Wattoo highlighted the need for efficient water usage, stressing that the country cannot afford wastage. Noting that the agriculture sector consumed the largest share of the country’s water, he said the ministry was focusing on efficient use. “Better irrigation practices [..] and rational water management are no longer optional but necessary,” he added. “Water must be an area of discipline, not dispute,” he said, highlighting that the water issue was about national food security and economic stability. “Above all, we must keep the people at the centre, the farmers, the villagers, the communities,” he said, adding that the Indus basin would require “careful management, strong institutions and consistent policy direction” for long-term sustainment. 2:20pm — Pakistan’s ‘lifeline’ Indus River basin under pressure: water minister In his chairperson address, Water Resources Minister Mian Muhammad Mueen Wattoo emphasised the importance of the Indus River basin for Pakistan’s agriculture and the livelihoods of the people. “If it is secure, Pakistan is secure. But today, that l