ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam on Tuesday stressed the importance of preserving marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices along Pakistan’s extensive coastline, a key focus of the government’s ‘clean ocean agenda’.

She said this during her meeting with Danish Ambassador Jakob Linulf, which was held to discuss bilateral cooperation on green energy transition, climate resilience, water conservation and biodiversity protection.

Ms Alam emphasised Pakistan’s dedication to global climate action, highlighting the government’s efforts to protect oceans, biodiversity, water and energy resources.

“Our oceans are vital to our economy and environmental sustainability,” she said, adding that “the clean ocean agenda is crucial for ensuring that our marine resources are preserved for future generations”.

“Efforts are being made in collaboration with various stakeholders to combat pollution and protect our oceans,” she said.

The PM’s aide highlighted Pakistan’s achievement in increasing mangrove cover by 300pc along the coastline, a milestone that has garnered global recognition. This initiative underscored Pakistan’s efforts to preserve environmental sustainability and climate resilience, particularly in safeguarding marine resources and mangrove forests.

Romina Alam expressed her appreciation for Denmark’s leadership in climate action and emphasised Pakistan’s urgent need for support in adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Ambassador Linulf shared Denmark’s expertise in renewable energy and sustainable practices, noting the potential for knowledge sharing and technology transfer to support Pakistan’s environmental goals.

Both the Danish ambassador and the PM’s aide explored various current and future initiatives aimed at addressing climate challenges. The discussion focused on shared efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability in both nations.

It also covered broader climate challenges such as deforestation, droughts, water scarcity and coastal erosion.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in renewable energy, water management and climate resilience.

The two underscored the global urgency for equitable climate financing for developing nations, which were disproportionately affected by climate-related disasters such as floods, heat waves and cyclones.

“This meeting is a pivotal step in strengthening the partnership between Denmark and Pakistan,” the PM’s aide said.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to pursue collaborative projects related to green energy transition, e-vehicle promotion, water conservation and disaster risk management to advance sustainable development in Pakistan.

Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, who is chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights and Climate Change Secretary Aisha Humera Chaudhry also attended the meeting.

Published in Dawn, October 2nd, 2024