Pakistan has signed the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The agreement was signed on behalf of Pakistan by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar.
The BBNJ Agreement is a landmark global initiative aimed at ensuring the protection, conservation, and sustainable utilization of marine biological diversity in areas that are beyond the jurisdiction of individual states. By becoming a signatory, Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding marine ecosystems and promoting responsible ocean governance.
During the negotiation process of the BBNJ Treaty, Pakistan played an active and leading role, particularly as the Chair of the Group of 77 and China in 2022. The country effectively represented the concerns and interests of developing nations, highlighting the importance of equitable benefit-sharing and capacity-building measures.
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Pakistan strongly advocated for the inclusion of mechanisms for technology transfer and fair access to marine genetic resources, aligning its stance with the principle of the “common heritage of humankind.” This reflects Pakistan’s dedication to ensuring that advancements in ocean resources benefit all nations, especially those with limited capacities.
The signing of this agreement underscores Pakistan’s unwavering support for multilateral cooperation and its vision for a sustainable future. It marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to collaborate with the international community on protecting biodiversity in high seas and ensuring that global resources are utilized for the collective good of humanity.
