ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – In a significant step toward enhanced climate cooperation, Pakistan has expressed deep interest in learning from Ethiopia’s homegrown model of climate adaptation and resilience. The development came during a high-level meeting between H.E. Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Special Envoy and Ambassador Extraordinary of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, and H.E. Dr. Musadik Masood Malik, Federal Minister for Climate Change.
The meeting, held at the Ministry of Climate Change in Islamabad, focused on fostering bilateral collaboration in the areas of environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula outlined Ethiopia’s internationally recognized achievements in climate action and ecological conservation. He noted that the country’s approach—rooted in the visionary “Medemer” philosophy of Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed—places strong emphasis on intergenerational wisdom, environmental responsibility, and sustainable growth.
The Ambassador cited Ethiopia’s flagship Green Legacy Initiative, under which more than 40.5 billion seedlings have been planted across the nation. With a remarkable 85% survival rate, this initiative has led to a 23.6% increase in forest cover and significantly contributed to food self-sufficiency.
Dr. Jemal Beker also introduced other transformative projects such as “Yelamat Tirufat” (Bounty of Basket) and Corridor Development, which are designed to build a climate-resilient economy through community mobilization and green innovation.
He emphasized Ethiopia’s willingness to share these successful climate strategies with Pakistan, noting that the Green Legacy Initiative is already being introduced locally through partnerships with the Ministry of Climate Change. The collaboration includes active involvement from parliamentarians, diplomats, business leaders, youth, religious scholars, and civil society organizations.
Federal Minister Dr. Musadik Malik warmly welcomed the Ambassador and commended Ethiopia’s exceptional progress in environmental restoration and sustainable development. He lauded the country’s success in tackling climate challenges, calling its model “very impressive.”
Recognizing Pakistan’s own vulnerability to climate change, the Minister expressed optimism about learning from Ethiopia’s example, especially in areas like agricultural productivity, water conservation, and urban sustainability. He also praised Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker’s dedication to promoting green partnerships and public awareness in Pakistan.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthen bilateral ties and cooperate closely on climate-related initiatives for a greener, more resilient future.
BY: The Times Union
