**French Development Agency Grants €12 Million to Strengthen Water and Sanitation Services in Punjab**
The French Development Agency (AFD) has signed a €12 million grant agreement with Pakistan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, aimed at enhancing the institutional capacity of the Government of Punjab to provide water and sanitation services in the major cities of Lahore and Faisalabad. This new grant is set to further bolster ongoing efforts to improve essential urban infrastructure in the region.
According to the French Embassy in Pakistan, the funding will support measures to strengthen the ability of local authorities to deliver effective water and sanitation services to rapidly growing urban populations. The initiative aligns with the broader goals of sustainable urban development and improved public health in Punjab.
This latest grant complements existing French investments in Punjab. In Faisalabad, the French government has already backed the establishment of a drinking water treatment plant, contributing significantly to the city’s access to safe and clean water. Additionally, France has expressed interest in financing a new wastewater treatment plant in Lahore, indicating a continued partnership in addressing urban environmental challenges.
Officials from both countries have welcomed the agreement, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in tackling water scarcity and sanitation issues in Pakistani cities. The collaborative projects are expected to benefit millions of residents, ensuring better quality of life and advancing sustainable development objectives in the province.
