pk-china-user By Fatima Javed
South Asian experts, including participants from Pakistan, took part in the Phewa Dialogue 2026 held in Chengdu, China, bringing together scholars and policymakers to deliberate on regional development challenges in the context of climate change and governance.
Held under the theme “South Asian Development under Climate Change and Governance,” the dialogue was jointly organized by the China Center for South Asia Studies and Tribhuvan University. The event brought together leading academics, policy specialists, and practitioners to share insights, enhance mutual understanding, and explore sustainable development pathways across South Asia.
Among the participants from Pakistan, Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director of the Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), delivered a keynote address during the first session. He emphasized that climate change represents a collective and urgent challenge for South Asia, with wide-ranging impacts on economies, livelihoods, and ecosystems throughout the region.
He noted that since climate-related challenges extend beyond national boundaries, effective solutions must be based on regional cooperation. He called for collaborative efforts in developing climate-resilient infrastructure, promoting renewable energy partnerships, advancing sustainable agriculture, and strengthening regional trade integration to build a more resilient economy.
Akram also highlighted the need for policy alignment, knowledge exchange, and coordinated disaster management systems to better address environmental risks. In addition, he stressed the important role of academic institutions, the private sector, civil society, and youth in driving sustainable development and encouraging innovation across South Asia.
Launched in 2024 in Pokhara, the Phewa Dialogue is a China-led initiative aimed at fostering dialogue and cooperation among South Asian countries. The 2026 edition marked its second iteration, reflecting growing regional engagement on shared economic and environmental challenges.
