Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif made a commanding impression at the Global COP30 Conference in Belem, Brazil, inaugurating the Pakistan Pavilion and positioning herself as one of the most influential voices from the Global South. Her participation at this year’s summit represents Pakistan’s strongest provincial leadership presence to date, signaling Punjab’s growing role in the fight against climate change and the emergence of Maryam Nawaz as a regional climate leader.
Since assuming office as Punjab’s first woman Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz has led an ambitious environmental transformation agenda focused on sustainability, innovation, and public welfare:
Delivering a stirring keynote address, she outlined Punjab’s climate vision and the government’s priorities for environmental sustainability, emphasizing climate resilience, clean energy, and the moral imperative of climate justice. Her remarks, delivered before an international audience, reflected a blend of policy depth and political conviction — hallmarks of her growing reputation as one of Asia’s most dynamic leaders.
“If the 21st century is to have meaning,” she declared, “let it be known as the century when humanity finally made peace with its planet. But let it also be known as the moment when the Global South found its voice — not in protest, but in purpose. The time has come to redefine the balance between the Global North and the Global South.”
Her address coincided with a symbolic opening moment for the conference, as Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva arrived in a Chinese-made electric vehicle, underscoring the global shift toward sustainable transport — an area that Maryam Nawaz herself has championed in Punjab.
At the Pakistan Pavilion, she met with several prominent global figures, including Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, the renowned Chadian environmental activist and UN advocate for indigenous communities, and Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand and a leading voice for compassionate, climate-focused governance. Their discussions reflected a growing solidarity among women leaders shaping the world’s environmental future.
Maryam Nawaz is also expected to meet with international delegations, environmental organizations, and policy experts to explore collaborative climate strategies, investment in sustainable infrastructure, and new pathways for climate financing. Her presence reinforces Pakistan’s commitment to a green and resilient future, while drawing symbolic connections between the Amazon rainforest and the great river systems of Punjab.
Accompanying her at COP30 are Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Minister for Education Rana Sikandar Hayat, and Minister for Local Government Zeeshan Rafique.
The COP30 Conference continues until November 21, with Maryam Nawaz’s message of partnership and planetary renewal resonating widely among global delegates.
