Pakistan and Ethiopia have strengthened their commitment to environmental sustainability by holding the Ethiopia–Pakistan Green Dialogue at the COMSTECH Secretariat in Islamabad. The event, organized by COMSTECH in partnership with the Ethiopian Embassy, focused on sharing successful strategies in overcoming climate challenges, with Ethiopia’s Green Legacy initiative serving as a prominent example for international collaboration in reforestation and ecological stewardship.
The programme opened with recitations and national anthems, setting the tone for a day dedicated to green diplomacy. A video presentation on Ethiopia’s Green Legacy initiative—one of the world’s largest state-led reforestation campaigns—was showcased to highlight the country’s achievements in combating deforestation and climate change.
Professor Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, COMSTECH’s Coordinator General, underscored the urgent need for collective action and regional partnerships to address global threats like environmental degradation and climate change. Ethiopian Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula detailed the transformative impact of the Green Legacy campaign, emphasizing its role as an international benchmark for mass tree planting and sustainable green practices.
Chief Guest Senator Yusuf Raza Gilani, Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, highlighted the acute vulnerability of Pakistan to environmental disasters, such as floods and droughts, despite the country’s minimal contribution to global emissions. He praised Ethiopia’s Green Legacy as a model for countries facing similar challenges and stressed that Pakistan and Ethiopia can benefit from deepening South-South cooperation to generate effective climate solutions. Senator Gilani also cited Pakistan’s active role in global climate forums—particularly in championing the Loss and Damage Fund and promoting climate finance—and called for practical collaboration through research partnerships, parliamentary exchanges, and joint task forces.
Dignitaries and delegation heads echoed the importance of increased cooperation between nations to achieve sustainable development and address climate challenges. The event featured the presentation of Green Legacy Awards, a symbolic tree-planting ceremony, and a group photograph marking the shared promise for a more sustainable future.
A dynamic panel discussion brought together policymakers and experts to explore policy frameworks, community engagement strategies, and innovative models for advancing environmental sustainability. During a concluding question-and-answer session and networking lunch, participants reaffirmed their interest in fostering greater collaboration between Pakistan and Ethiopia in the areas of climate resilience, ecological restoration, and sustainable development.
The Ethiopia–Pakistan Green Dialogue successfully reinforced the shared vision of both countries to champion environmental diplomacy and to pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come.
