The OIC Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) and the Embassy of Ethiopia hosted the “Ethiopia–Pakistan Green Dialogue: Lessons from Ethiopia’s Green Legacy” at the COMSTECH Secretariat in Islamabad, bringing together government leaders, diplomats, and experts to discuss collective action against climate change. The event centered on the sharing of Ethiopia’s successful Green Legacy initiative and its relevance for Pakistan and other nations facing environmental challenges.
The session opened with formal presentations, including a video on Ethiopia’s Green Legacy, a large-scale reforestation program that has attracted international attention for its effectiveness in combating climate change through mass tree planting and sustainable environmental practices.
Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of OIC-COMSTECH, welcomed participants and highlighted the critical role of green diplomacy in addressing global issues such as deforestation and environmental degradation. Ethiopian Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula outlined the significant progress made under Ethiopia’s Green Legacy campaign, which has become a model for sustainable development worldwide.
Senator Yusuf Raza Gillani, Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan and Chief Guest at the event, spoke about the urgent climate risks facing Pakistan, including floods, glacial melt, and droughts, despite the country’s minimal contribution to global emissions. He praised Ethiopia’s reforestation efforts as a blueprint for global action and stressed the need for countries with shared challenges to collaborate more closely. Gillani cited Pakistan’s active participation in international climate negotiations, including advocacy for the Loss and Damage Fund at COP27 and work on climate finance at COP29.
Emphasizing practical steps, Senator Gillani called for the creation of joint task forces, increased parliamentary exchanges, and enhanced research collaboration between the two countries. He also invited Ethiopia’s parliamentary leaders to participate in the upcoming Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference.
The event included the presentation of Green Legacy Awards and a symbolic tree planting ceremony, underscoring the shared commitment of both nations to environmental stewardship. A panel discussion followed, featuring experts and policymakers discussing innovative strategies for policy development, community engagement, and long-term sustainability.
Participants expressed strong support for deeper cooperation between Pakistan and Ethiopia in areas including ecological restoration and climate resilience. The gathering concluded with a question-and-answer session and a networking lunch, reinforcing the importance of international partnerships in pursuing a sustainable future.
The Ethiopia–Pakistan Green Dialogue highlighted both countries’ dedication to advancing environmental diplomacy and working together to secure a greener world for coming generations.
