Pakistan, Aug. 10 -- Negotiations in Geneva to create a global treaty against plastic pollution are facing serious delays, with countries sharply divided on how ambitious the agreement should be. The talks have four working days left to finalize a legally binding deal.

The main dispute is between nations wanting strict limits on plastic production and toxic chemicals, and those preferring a focus on waste management only. This clash has stalled progress and increased tensions among delegates.

The draft text has grown from 22 to 35 pages, while unresolved sections have ballooned to nearly 1,500 bracketed points as countries insert conflicting ideas. Observers warn this growing complexity risks derailing the entire process.

Some oil-prod...