Collaboration in climate change between Rawanda, Pakistan discussed

Islamabad: Rwandan ambassador Fatou Harerimana on Wednesday highlighted the potential of bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Rwanda in climate change, water conservation, smart agriculture, disaster management, emphasising the need for enhanced collaboration.

During a meeting with Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam here, Harerimana said there was a need to expand bilateral collaboration and cooperation in environment, climate change and disaster management, adding that the two nations enjoy friendly relations supported by mutual respect, growing economic ties and cooperation in various sectors.

During the meeting, both sides also highlighted the growing urgency for bilateral cooperation as a part of the international collaboration to tackle the common challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, heatwaves, droughts and water scarcity, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to national and global sustainability.

“Rwanda and Pakistan, with a longstanding relationship spanning sixty-two years, actively collaborate in various fields, including trade, health, and investment. But, now environment, climate resilience building, water conservation, disaster risk management, heatwave, drought and desertification are the areas which offer a huge potential for both the countries to collaborate,” the Rwandan ambassador Fatou Harerimana said.

Ambassador Harerimana and the PM’s climate aide explored and discussed several possible areas of cooperation, including the sharing of expertise, joint research initiatives and the implementation of green technologies to promote sustainable development.

“Rwanda is committed to playing a significant role in the global effort to combat climate change. Our partnership with Pakistan will not only strengthen our climate resilience but also pave the way for practical, actionable solutions that can be applied across the developing world,” Ambassador Harerimana stated during the meeting.

Highlighting Rwanda’s commitment to climate action, the ambassador informed the PM’s climate aide Romina Khurshid Alam that Rwanda is recognised as a global leader in environmental sustainability, with a track record of progressive policies aimed at reducing emissions and promoting renewable energy. The country's efforts, particularly in reforestation and conservation, have earned international recognition, the envoy added.

The two leaders also discussed the impact of climate change on agriculture, water resources, and biodiversity in both countries, emphasizing the importance of innovative solutions to mitigate the environmental challenges faced by their populations. Both nations acknowledged the importance of sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and ecosystem restoration in their efforts to reduce carbon footprints.