ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: As the World celebrates the first International Day of the Markhor on Friday, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has called upon all Pakistanis and the international community to reaffirm their commitment to environmental conservation.
“Let us work together to protect not only the Markhor but all species that enrich our planet’s biodiversity,” the prime minister said in his message. “By doing so, we secure a sustainable future for generations to come.”
The prime minister said that Markhor is the national animal of Pakistan, and we take pride in the majestic creature that symbolizes our rich natural heritage.
“The Markhor, with its unique corkscrew-shaped horns, represents our commitment to preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance,” the prime minister said.
“This day, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly on May 2, 2024, acknowledges our nation’s efforts and successes in wildlife conservation. The significant increase in the Markhor population over the past decade is a testament to Pakistan’s dedication to protecting our natural environment,” he added.
The prime minister said that our conservation programs, supported by local communities and guided by scientific research, have shown that with collective effort, we can reverse the decline of endangered species.
Shahbaz Sharif said that Pakistan, as a committed signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), proudly announced its significant elevation to CITES Category I.
This elevation is a testament to the nation’s unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation and the sustainable management of our natural resources, he said.
The prime minister also said that our exclusive legislation, the Pakistan Trade Control of Wild Fauna and Flora Act, 2012, underscores our commitment to responsible trade practices and the well-being of endangered species.
