ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – The enduring fraternity between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan was celebrated at a special Green Legacy Forum and Plantation Ceremony held at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) in Islamabad. The event marked a milestone in environmental diplomacy and cooperation under Ethiopia’s globally admired Green Legacy Initiative, launched by Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials, diplomats, scholars, and environmental advocates, reflecting the growing momentum of Ethiopia–Pakistan green collaboration. In his keynote address, Secretary of the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, Mr. Amir Muhyuddin, commended Ethiopia’s exemplary leadership in climate resilience and sustainable development.
“Ethiopia stands out as a symbol of African pride and resistance, being the only country on the continent never colonized,” Mr. Muhyuddin remarked. “That same spirit of sovereignty is seen today in its bold environmental actions under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s Green Legacy.”
The Secretary praised Ethiopia’s accomplishments, noting the increase in forest cover from 17% to 24%, and the implementation of one of Africa’s largest hydropower projects, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which is powering the future of East Africa. He described Ethiopia’s environmental strides as a “model for the world,” calling on nations to adopt similarly bold, people-centered initiatives.
The event also paid tribute to the historic spiritual bonds between Ethiopia and the Muslim world, especially Pakistan, as Mr. Muhyuddin recalled the legacy of Hazrat Bilal Habshi (RA)—a powerful symbol of Ethiopia’s deep-rooted connection with Islamic heritage and global humanity.
His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Ethiopia’s Special Envoy and Ambassador Extraordinary to Pakistan, played a key role in organizing the forum and mobilizing communities under the Green Legacy Movement in Pakistan, building people-to-people linkages through climate diplomacy.
Participants collectively planted trees to symbolize shared responsibility in combating climate change and strengthening ties between the two nations. The ceremony highlighted mutual aspirations for a climate-resilient, peaceful, and prosperous future, grounded in solidarity, sustainability, and strategic partnership.
As the world grapples with the growing threat of climate change, the Ethiopia–Pakistan partnership under the Green Legacy Initiative stands as a beacon of cooperation, hope, and ecological leadership.
BY: The Times Union
