by nawabzada shah ali
The Capital Development Authority (CDA), in collaboration with the Embassy of Ethiopia and the Human Resource Development Network (HRDN), hosted a high-level Ethiopian delegation at Fatima Jinnah Park, F-9 Islamabad, to formally launch the “Plant Fraternity” initiative—an effort to strengthen Ethiopia-Pakistan relations and promote environmental sustainability.
The plantation ceremony, attended by a large number of youth and community members, marked the beginning of the Ethio-Pakistan “Plant Fraternity” campaign in Islamabad. The initiative aims to foster brotherly ties between the two nations while addressing the shared global challenge of climate change.
Speaking at the event, the Ethiopian Ambassador emphasized that despite contributing minimally to global carbon emissions, Pakistan is experiencing the severe consequences of climate change. He noted that the Government of Ethiopia has sent its delegation to support Pakistan in its environmental efforts and share the success of Ethiopia’s renowned Green Legacy program.
“The ‘Plant Fraternity’ initiative is a gift from our government. Through it, we wish to share our Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed’s successful Green Legacy experience with Pakistan,” said the Ambassador.
He highlighted that under the Green Legacy Initiative, Ethiopia has planted more than 41.2 billion seedlings over the past six years, significantly combating deforestation, land degradation, food insecurity, and unemployment.
Director General Environment CDA, H.E. Awais Tarar, praised the Ethiopian Embassy’s initiative, calling it a meaningful step toward strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing urban forestry in Islamabad. He reaffirmed CDA’s commitment to afforestation and community-driven plantation drives.
Ms. Robeela Bangash, CEO of HRDN, underscored the vital role of youth in climate action, encouraging active participation in tree plantation campaigns to help mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change.
The event served not only as a diplomatic gesture but also as a powerful call for cross-border collaboration in tackling environmental challenges and investing in a greener, more sustainable future.