By Adnan Hameed TWA ______ Islamabad : United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pakistan, the German development cooperation and UNICEF in close collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment Coordination and Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives hosted a workshop on Pakistan's long-term vision for Low Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS). Attended by around 250 representatives from the public, private, academic, and development sectors, the workshop progressed towards the declaration of a joint LT-LEDS work plan by the Government of Pakistan, UNDP, GIZ and UNICEF, signifying a unified approach to creating a roadmap for achieving a decarbonized economy in Pakistan.

The workshop commenced with remarks from Dr. Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative UNDP Pakistan, who highlighted UNDP’s role in assisting government agencies in formulating climate policies and the significance of developing a robust LT-LEDS framework to achieve a low-carbon future. Ms. Mellisa Corkum, Acting UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, also solidified UNICEF’s commitment to working alongside partner organizations to ensure a just transition to a decarbonized economy. Key representatives from the government appreciated the importance of this initiative. Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the PM on Climate Change graced the event with her presence and emphasized the need for public-private collaboration to achieve Pakistan's net-zero goal. Ms. Estefania Luraschi of the 2050 Pathways Platform outlined the strategic process for Pakistan's Long-Term Vision, setting a comprehensive framework for sustainable development. Moreover, to equip stakeholders with practical strategic planning skills to explore pathways to achieve net-zero emissions, and scenario modelling session facilitated by the Millennium Institute. The workshop featured a panel discussion on ‘Strategic Pathways to Decarbonization’ that discussed decarbonization, low emission development and just transition. Engaging key stakeholders in Pakistan, it concluded with actionable recommendations for a resilient and inclusive green economy. Moreover, a gender-responsive dialogue on the ‘Role of Women in a Just Transition to Low-Emission Development’ highlighted the critical role of women's leadership in driving LT-LEDS, showcasing stories of successful green entrepreneurs and their contributions to sustainable livelihoods and climate solutions. In closing remarks, Mr. Wolfgang Hesse, Cluster Coordinator for the Energy and Climate Change Cluster at GIZ Pakistan, reiterated Germany's commitment to support the Pakistani Government in addressing climate change by fulfilling its obligations under the Paris Agreement, promoting a just energy transition, and ensuring a sustainable future for the country. UNDP’s Global Climate Promise Initiative and Climate Resilience Programme, the German development cooperation and UNICEF are committed to supporting the Government of Pakistan in formulating the LT-LEDS strategy alongside providing policy and implementation support at national and sub-national levels. This collaborative effort marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and decarbonized future for Pakistan.