it reflects our joint commitment to democratic ideals, dialogue, and parliamentary diplomacy,”

Senator Sherry Rehman Welcomes Russian Delegation in Special Senate Session

Islamabad, 28 October 2024: In a special session of the Senate, Hon’ble Senator Sherry Rehman warmly welcomed a distinguished delegation from the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, led by the esteemed Speaker, Excellency Ms. Valentina Matvienko. The visit marks a significant moment in the strengthening of parliamentary ties and bilateral relations between Pakistan and Russia.

Senator Rehman, in her remarks, praised the growing depth and maturity of the relationship between the two nations. She highlighted that the presence of Ms. Matvienko in Pakistan’s Senate is a moment of pride for the country, embodying the commitment both nations share towards democratic ideals, multilateral engagement, and women empowerment.

“Your presence here, Madam Speaker, is not only a moment of pride for Pakistan but also a testament to the growing depth of our relationship. Your address today goes beyond formality—it reflects our joint commitment to democratic ideals, dialogue, and parliamentary diplomacy,” Senator Rehman remarked.

During the session, Ms. Matvienko expressed her admiration for Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and especially acknowledged the contributions of Pakistan's late Prime Minister Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Senator Rehman echoed these sentiments, calling Benazir Bhutto the ultimate icon of leadership and resilience, who left an indelible mark on the world.

Senator Rehman further emphasized the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in bridging differences and advancing mutual understanding in an increasingly complex global environment. She expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan-Russia relations.

In her address, Senator Rehman also highlighted the cultural and literary ties between the two nations. She noted the deep resonance of Russia’s literary greats, like Leo Tolstoy and Fyodor Dostoevsky, among Pakistani readers.

As the special session concluded, Senator Rehman expressed confidence that the outcomes of the visit would lay the foundation for an even stronger partnership in the future, anchored in dialogue, mutual trust, and cooperation.

“The friendship between Pakistan and Russia will continue to thrive and evolve, bringing prosperity to our peoples in the years ahead,” Senator Rehman concluded.

The visit of the Russian delegation marks a new chapter in Pakistan-Russia relations, with both sides expressing commitment to further enhancing cooperation in multiple fields, including infrastructure development, cultural exchange, and parliamentary diplomacy.

Senator Sherry Rehman Calls for Internationally Determined Contributions at CSCCC Pre-COP29 Event

Islamabad, October 28, 2024 – 

Senator Sherry Rehman, delivering the closing keynote address at the Civil Society Coalition for Climate Change (CSCCC) Pre-COP29 event, urged the international community to take immediate, decisive action to bridge the widening gap between climate finance pledges and actual support for countries disproportionately affected by climate change.

In her powerful speech, Senator Rehman emphasized the importance of COP29, highlighting the dire financial needs of countries like Pakistan, which are on the frontlines of the climate crisis. "COP29 is being heralded as the ‘Finance COP,’ and rightfully so. But we cannot walk into it with slogans. We need substantive, bankable solutions," Senator Rehman said. "Pakistan will need $348 billion by 2030 to meet our adaptation and mitigation targets. Yet, the Loss and Damage Fund, critical for vulnerable countries, stands woefully underfunded at $770 million. This is simply not enough."

Senator Rehman stressed that while Pakistan’s emissions account for less than 1% of global totals, the country is one of the most climate-vulnerable in the world, facing extreme weather patterns from the melting of its glaciers to deadly summer temperatures that reach up to 53°C. She urged a reevaluation of how climate finance is structured and accessed, pushing for the introduction of "Internationally Determined Contributions" (IDCs) as a new framework for demanding accountability from high-emission countries.

"It’s time we demand what is rightfully owed to us. We are not asking for charity. We are asking for climate justice," she stated. "We need to ask those who have been making these pledges—where is the money you owe us? The temperature is rising, the emissions are growing, and the gap between what’s needed and what’s available is only widening. This must be at the center of the COP29 agenda."

Senator Rehman also called for Pakistan to play a leading role within the Global South, convening a coalition of small island nations, African countries, and other climate-vulnerable states. She noted that much more needs to be done to push for global climate accountability. "The Global South is without proper leadership on these issues. Pakistan must step up and lead the charge. We have a unique voice, and we are part of the G77, but we need to be at the forefront of this movement, asking the hard questions and pushing for results," Senator Rehman stated.

Senator Rehman called for a shift in how the world thinks about green financing. She cautioned that while private financing is often touted as a solution, it cannot be relied upon due to its profit-driven nature. "Unlocking climate finance shouldn’t be unfathomable. This is not a matter of capitalism yielding profits. This is about survival. We must push for bankable projects, yes, but also recognize that the pyramid of inequality is sharpening precipitously. Without major financial reforms, we are setting ourselves up for failure."

Senator Rehman concluded with a call to action: "We are heading into COP29, and we must go in with our own agenda. The Global South, and particularly countries like Pakistan, cannot afford to have others define the conversation. This is our future at stake. It is time to ask for what is due to us and change the rules of the game."

The event, which featured prominent voices in climate advocacy, marked a significant moment in setting the stage for Pakistan’s engagement at COP29. Senator Rehman’s strong, clear call for Internationally Determined Contributions resonated with the audience.

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