Pakistan and Ethiopia have reaffirmed their commitment to joint action on climate change and environmental sustainability during the Ethiopia–Pakistan Green Dialogue, held at the COMSTECH Secretariat in Islamabad. The event brought together government officials, diplomats, and experts to discuss shared challenges, highlight Ethiopia’s successful Green Legacy initiative, and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in reforestation, climate diplomacy, and sustainable development.
The dialogue opened with formalities including national anthems and a presentation on Ethiopia’s Green Legacy campaign, renowned globally for its large-scale tree plantation efforts. Professor Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH, stressed the growing significance of green diplomacy and the urgent need for collective regional and international action to address environmental threats like deforestation and climate change.
Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula of Ethiopia shared insights into his country’s Green Legacy campaign, which has become a global benchmark for combating climate change and promoting sustainability through mass tree planting and innovative environmental practices.
Senator Yusuf Raza Gillani, Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan and Chief Guest of the event, highlighted Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change despite its minimal contribution to global emissions. He cited recurring natural disasters such as floods and droughts as evidence of the climate crisis. Gillani praised Ethiopia’s achievements, calling its Green Legacy Initiative a model for countries with shared environmental concerns. He emphasized the importance of South-South cooperation and pointed to Pakistan’s leadership in global climate advocacy, referencing initiatives like the Loss and Damage Fund at COP27 and efforts to advance climate finance at international forums.
Stressing the need for practical collaboration, Gillani suggested forming joint task forces, organizing parliamentary exchanges, and developing research partnerships between Pakistan and Ethiopia. He also extended an invitation to Ethiopian parliamentary leaders to attend the upcoming Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference in Islamabad.
Distinguished speakers and delegation heads echoed the necessity of enhanced regional and global partnerships for sustainable development, reinforcing the significance of political will, effective legislation, and active community engagement.
The event featured the presentation of Green Legacy Awards, a symbolic tree plantation ceremony, and a group photograph, demonstrating the countries’ shared commitment to restoring and protecting the environment. A panel discussion brought together experts and policymakers to present strategies for long-term sustainability, ranging from policy frameworks to models for community participation.
The session concluded with a dynamic question-and-answer segment and a networking lunch, where participants reiterated their intention to deepen collaboration in climate resilience, ecological restoration, and sustainable development. The Ethiopia–Pakistan Green Dialogue affirmed the mutual resolve of both nations to advance environmental diplomacy and foster a greener, more secure future.
