Islamabad — H.E. Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to Pakistan, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Faisal Karim Kundi, Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), at the Governor’s House in Islamabad to advance cooperation across a broad range of sectors.
During the meeting, both dignitaries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan–Ethiopia relations, with particular focus on trade, investment, tourism, culture, education, and climate action. Ambassador Dr. Jemal emphasized the shared vision of both nations in fostering people-to-people ties through the exchange of business, academic, and governmental delegations.
Offering heartfelt condolences over the recent flood tragedies in Pakistan, Ambassador Dr. Jemal expressed Ethiopia’s solidarity with Pakistan in facing the climate crisis—despite its minimal contribution to global emissions. He briefed the Governor on Ethiopia’s robust environmental diplomacy and the embassy’s efforts to promote awareness of climate resilience.
Highlighting a landmark collaboration, the Ambassador welcomed Pakistan’s decision to align its Green Pakistan Initiative with Ethiopia’s flagship Green Legacy Initiative, a national afforestation campaign spearheaded by Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed. The Governor, in response, pledged to initiate the Green Legacy drive in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, signaling a new era of provincial commitment to environmental sustainability.
Dr. Jemal also outlined the deepening bilateral cooperation in sectors such as aviation, science and technology, health, and higher education. He extended a formal invitation to the KPK government and business leaders to actively participate in the upcoming 5th Pakistan-Africa Trade Development Conference & Single Country Exhibition (PATDC & SCE), scheduled for October 2025 in Addis Ababa.
Governor Kundi assured the Ambassador of his administration’s full support in mobilizing the province’s vibrant business community for the landmark event. He also emphasized KPK’s strategic role as the “Gateway to Asia” and underscored the province’s rich heritage and immense potential for religious and cultural tourism, particularly centered around the ancient Gandhara civilization.
The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to deepen Pakistan-Ethiopia friendship through tangible initiatives and inclusive cooperation.
BY:The Times Union
