Ambassador Georg Steiner emphasized that while Switzerland continues to contribute through various development and environmental projects, the future of Pakistan’s tourism particularly in the northern regions depends largely on the vision and commitment of the Government of Pakistan
Ansar Mahmood Bhatti
ISLAMABAD, December 11: To mark International Mountain Day and the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025, the Embassy of Switzerland hosted the premiere of a 30-minute documentary titled “The Melt Down of Glaciers – Switzerland and Pakistan” at the residence of Ambassador Georg Steiner. Diplomats, climate experts, civil society leaders, and media representatives attended the event, which shed light on the growing challenges posed by rapidly melting glaciers in both countries.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Georg Steiner emphasized that while Switzerland continues to contribute through various development and environmental projects, the future of Pakistan’s tourism particularly in the northern regions depends largely on the vision and commitment of the Government of Pakistan. He said Switzerland is always ready to support Pakistan in enhancing its tourism potential, adding that Pakistan is “blessed with scenic beauties that deserve global attention.”
The documentary explored the critical role of glaciers, snow, and ice in the global climate system and hydrological cycle. It reveals how accelerated melting threatens water security, agriculture, and the livelihoods of vulnerable mountain populations.
Featuring interviews with glaciologists, climate scientists, and community members, the film documented the shared challenges faced by Pakistan and Switzerland. While Switzerland benefits from advanced monitoring technologies, strong infrastructure, and substantial financial resources, it still struggles to cope with the pace of glacial retreat.
In contrast, Pakistan home to over 7,000 glaciers and the world’s greatest concentration of peaks above 8,000 meters remains extremely vulnerable. Limited resources, combined with the increasing threat of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), pose severe risks to agriculture, irrigation systems, and human settlements.
Experts from both countries underscored the need for enhanced scientific cooperation, data sharing, and policy alignment to address the worsening effects of climate change. They stressed that glaciers are not only natural wonders but essential water sources for millions.
Ambassador Steiner reiterated Switzerland’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in climate resilience, environmental preservation, and sustainable tourism initiatives. He noted that the documentary aims to deepen public understanding of these challenges and stimulate stronger collaborative action.
Produced with support from the Swiss Embassy in Pakistan, Adventure Club Pakistan, and Explore n Exped, the documentary blends powerful visuals with scientific insight. Audiences praised its balanced storytelling and breathtaking cinematography, describing it as an important contribution to climate awareness in the region.
The event concluded with discussions on strengthening partnerships to protect mountain ecosystems and support communities living on the front lines of climate change.
