By Naveed Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: In a significant move under the Team Europe Initiative ‘Building Back Better through Green Jobs Creation,’ the European Union (EU), in collaboration with Germany, France, and Italy, joined forces with the Agence Française de Développement (AfD) to launch a groundbreaking climate initiative in Punjab’s urban centers. The agreement, titled ‘Punjab Urban Water and Wastewater Governance and Services Improvement,’ allocates €179 million over six years to address pressing water and sanitation issues in Faisalabad and Lahore, while reinforcing climate resilience.
The collaborative effort, signed by EU Ambassador Dr. Riina Kionka and Deputy Director AfD Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Asia, Ms. Julie Marsaudon, witnessed the presence of German Ambassador Alfred Grannas and Italian Ambassador Andreas Ferrarese.
Emphasizing Punjab’s pivotal economic role, Dr. Riina Kionka highlighted persistent water and sanitation challenges, expressing the EU’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s climate resilience and green inclusive growth. The initiative aligns with the EU Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan and emphasizes the EU’s role as a leading contributor to global climate finance, emitting 9% of greenhouse gases but contributing 30% of global public financing.
A representative of the French Ambassador noted France’s prioritization of the fight against climate change, with 97% of AFD financing dedicated to climate-related initiatives. The partnership with the EU on water and sanitation signifies a commitment to mobilizing expertise for climate-resilient solutions.
The ‘Punjab Urban Water and Wastewater Governance and Services Improvement’ project aims to install 200 kilometers of new water supply pipes, provide 55,000 new connections, enhance capacities, increase water treatment by 135,000 cubic meters per day, and strengthen urban water governance. This transformative initiative is set to improve drinking water access for 400,000 individuals, marking a significant stride toward sustainable development and climate resilience.
This joint intervention underscores the shared commitment of the Government of Pakistan and Team Europe to fostering sustainable development, representing a crucial step towards a better quality of life for residents and businesses in Faisalabad and Lahore.
