ISLAMABAD: In a powerful display of international environmental solidarity, Pakistan has officially joined hands with Ethiopia in the ambitious “Renewal Through Planting” campaign — an initiative aimed at planting 700 million trees in a single day. The campaign is part of Ethiopia’s broader Green Legacy Initiative, launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed to combat climate change and restore ecological balance.
To mark this landmark collaboration, the Ethiopian Embassy in Islamabad hosted a joint plantation event and media briefing. The gathering drew a wide array of attendees, including diplomats, government officials, members of parliament, business leaders, religious figures, youth representatives, media personnel, and civil society activists.
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr. Musadik Malik attended the ceremony as chief guest, while Additional Secretary for Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hamid Asghar Khan, was present as guest of honor.
In his address, Ethiopian Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker highlighted the significance of the Green Legacy Initiative, first launched in 2019. He emphasized the program’s role in reducing carbon emissions, curbing soil erosion, ensuring food security, and advancing sustainable development across Ethiopia. The ambassador welcomed Pakistan’s participation as a sign of its growing commitment to climate action and bilateral cooperation.
He also announced that a high-level Ethiopian delegation, comprising senior officials and climate experts, will soon visit Pakistan. The visit will include participation in “Green Dialogues” and plantation drives in various regions of the country.
Federal Minister Dr. Musadik Malik praised Ambassador Beker for his dedicated efforts to promote environmental consciousness in Pakistan. He also lauded Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed for his visionary leadership and pivotal role in advancing the global climate agenda.
Dr. Malik acknowledged Ethiopia’s successful initiatives, such as the Green Legacy and Yelemat Tirufat (Bounty of Basket), as inspiring models of environmental resilience. He stressed that Pakistan is eager to learn from such efforts as it continues to expand its own climate response strategies.
This collaboration underscores Pakistan’s resolve to confront climate challenges through meaningful international partnerships and affirms its willingness to stand alongside global allies in pursuit of a greener, more sustainable future.