- Ethiopia–Pakistan Green Dialogue Held at COMSTECH Secretariat
Islamabad, August 2025 — The OIC Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, hosted a landmark event titled “Ethiopia–Pakistan Green Dialogue: Lessons from Ethiopia’s Green Legacy” at the COMSTECH Auditorium in Islamabad.
The program opened with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an, followed by the national anthems of Ethiopia and Pakistan. A compelling video presentation on Ethiopia’s flagship “Green Legacy” initiative set the tone for the discussions ahead.
In his welcoming remarks, Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of OIC-COMSTECH, underscored the significance of green diplomacy and the urgent need for collective action to address global environmental threats including climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
H.E. Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Ambassador of Ethiopia, shared insights into Ethiopia’s Green Legacy campaign—a massive reforestation and environmental rehabilitation effort that has drawn global recognition. He emphasized that this initiative serves as a powerful example of how national commitment and community involvement can drive sustainable change.
The event’s Chief Guest, H.E. Senator Yusuf Raza Gillani, Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, delivered a passionate address. He highlighted Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change despite its negligible contribution to global carbon emissions, noting the country’s struggle with floods, glacial melting, and droughts.
Senator Gillani praised Ethiopia’s Green Legacy as a global model for climate resilience, stressing that both nations face common climate challenges and can benefit immensely from enhanced South–South cooperation. He also reiterated Pakistan’s leadership in international climate advocacy, citing its role in promoting the Loss and Damage Fund at COP27 and championing climate finance ahead of COP29.
Calling for tangible collaboration, he proposed the formation of joint task forces, parliamentary exchanges, and research partnerships. He extended an invitation to Ethiopia’s parliamentary leadership to participate in the upcoming Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference, emphasizing:
“Together, we can build a greener, safer, and sustainable future.”
The dialogue featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including environmental policymakers, diplomats, and development experts, who emphasized the urgent need for regional and global cooperation to achieve sustainable development and climate goals.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of Green Legacy Awards, followed by a symbolic tree plantation ceremony and a group photograph, symbolizing the shared vision of a greener future.
The event also hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion on Green Legacy Initiatives, where experts and policymakers shared innovative strategies, policy frameworks, and community-driven models aimed at long-term environmental sustainability.
The dialogue concluded with an engaging Q&A session and a networking lunch, where participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan–Ethiopia cooperation in climate resilience, ecological restoration, and sustainable development.
The Ethiopia–Pakistan Green Dialogue successfully reinforced the shared vision of both nations in promoting environmental diplomacy, and marked a significant step forward in their collective pursuit of a sustainable and climate-resilient future.
BY: The Times Union
