- Pakistan-UAE sign MoU for renewable energy projects
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, President-designate of COP-28 and UAE’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, Minister for Industries and Technologies and Chairman Masdar, along with a high-level delegation, met Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Thursday.
Welcoming Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, the prime minister underscored the importance of high-level exchanges and felicitated him on his appointment as President-designate COP-28.
The prime minister expressed full confidence in Dr. Jaber’s stewardship of this important global conference.
Shahbaz Sharif conveyed best wishes to the leadership of UAE for the success of the event which is scheduled to be held from November 30 to December 12, 2023 in Dubai.
Appreciating UAE’s efforts in combating climate change and developing renewable energy projects, the prime minister extended Pakistan’s full support to UAE for COP28.
The prime minister thanked the UAE for its support during last year’s devastating floods in Pakistan. He also thanked UAE for its vital support to Pakistan which has been critical in reaching staff level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, President-designate of COP-28 and UAE’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, Minister for Industries and Technologies and Chairman Masdar, along with a high-level delegation, called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad. pic.twitter.com/ZZwTAexJsL
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) July 6, 2023
The prime minister also briefed the delegation about the Special Investment Facilitation Council aimed at providing facilitation to foreign investors in diverse sectors. He also shared details of the 10,000 MW solar energy projects for which a road show was already held in Dubai.
President-designate of COP-28 Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber conveyed the greetings and best wishes of the UAE leadership to the Prime Minister. He showed keen interest to enhance partnership with Pakistan in all domains.
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber emphasized UAE’s leadership directions to him to further improve collaboration with Pakistan in the renewable energy sector that will help boost energy security for Pakistan.
The visiting dignitary underscored that they view Pakistan as an important partner in climate change discourse and appreciated Pakistan’s active role in climate change diplomacy.
The Minister for Finance & Revenue Muhammad Ishaq Dar, the Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman, the Minister of State for Petroleum Dr. Mussadik Malik, the Prime Minister’s Special Assistant Syed Tariq Fatemi and senior officials attended the meeting.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for development of renewable energy projects in Pakistan was also signed by both sides.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif witnessed the Signing Ceremony while the Secretary Power Division Rashid Mahmood Langrial and the Undersecretary of Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure of UAE Mr. Sharif al Olama signed on behalf of their respective sides.
Secretary Power Division Mr. Rashid Mahmood Langrial and Undersecretary of Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure of UAE Mr. Sharif al Olama signing MoU for development of renewable energy projects in Islamabad. Prime Minister also witnessed the signing ceremony. pic.twitter.com/WDwvkUN5zU
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) July 6, 2023
Earlier, the President Designate COP-28 and UAE’s Minister for Industries & Technologies Dr. Sultan Al Jaber held a meeting with the Climate Change Minister Sherry Rehman in Islamabad.
Talking to her, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber called for united efforts to deal with the challenge of climate change.
The UAE’s minister assured to introduce programs that are practical, pragmatic and result driven ranging from adaptation to financing to cope with this issue.
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber emphasized for responsible energy transition by ensuring the finances are available, accessible and affordable. He said that we need lot of capital if we are serious about addressing the challenge.
#DrSultanAlJaber met Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Climate Change & Environment @sherryrehman, to discuss the need for a global reset that enhances support for developing countries on the frontline of climate change, a key priority of #COP28. pic.twitter.com/LY2J5GGqfB
— COP28 UAE (@COP28_UAE) July 6, 2023
Furthermore, he also touched upon Pakistan-UAE robust relationship. He said that the UAE is keen in identifying cooperation and investment opportunities in sectors such as conventional and renewable energy such as wind and solar.
Sherry Rehman highlighted the steps being taken by Pakistan to exploit the potential of renewable energy in the Country.
The minister emphasized for doubling of adaptation finance and the fulfillment of US$ 100 billion per annum to support climate action in developing countries.
