Islamabad (By Irfan ul haq)
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Musadik Malik, met with His Excellency Mr. Ali Mubarak Ali Essa Al-Khater, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, to discuss avenues for enhanced bilateral cooperation.
During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on environmental collaboration, investment opportunities, and upcoming international engagements, including the second part of the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, scheduled to be held in Geneva, Switzerland, next week.
Dr. Malik highlighted the importance of ensuring access, affordability, and sustainability for developing nations such as Pakistan in the context of global environmental agreements. He underscored that positions on international treaties must take into account the socio-economic realities and needs of the people, noting that it is the responsibility of governments and their representatives to protect the rights, livelihoods, and well-being of their citizens.
The Minister also briefed the Ambassador on the Government’s upcoming Green Startups Initiative, being developed under the Prime Minister’s vision of sustainable development and the green revolution. This initiative will support young entrepreneurs in launching environmentally friendly ventures, connect them with international investors, and create opportunities for youth to contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth. Efforts are underway to take this program to the international stage, with discussions ongoing with global organizations and foreign governments.
The Qatari Ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s security support during the FIFA World Cup 2022 and affirmed that Pakistan holds an important place in the hearts of the Qatari people. He expressed keen interest in strengthening cooperation in climate action, trade, and investment.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral collaboration in areas of mutual interest, particularly in environmental sustainability, economic partnerships, and people-to-people linkages.
The Secretary Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Ms. Aisha Humaira and Special Secretary to the United Nations Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Nabeel Muneer were also present in the meeting.
