The Ethiopian Embassy and Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Islamabad, have jointly launched Ethiopia’s ‘Green Legacy Initiative’ to promote environmental protection and strengthen educational ties between Pakistan and Ethiopia, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Thursday.
Ethiopian Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba, visited AIOU where he and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Nasir Mahmood inaugurated the initiative by planting ‘friendship saplings.’
Speaking to university faculty, Ambassador Oba highlighted the importance of the Green Legacy Initiative in addressing climate change, restoring forest cover, ensuring food security, and promoting a green economy.
The ambassador also briefed participants on Ethiopia’s historic ties with Pakistan, its growing economy, demographic potential, culture, and tourism opportunities.
He stressed the need for institutional linkages between educational institutions in Pakistan and Ethiopia, particularly in scientific and professional education, agricultural research, and faculty and student exchange programs.
Ambassador Oba also highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing educational expansion, noting increases in the number of educational institutions and literacy rates. He urged the academic community to contribute towards further strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Ethiopia.
AIOU Vice-Chancellor, Dr Nasir Mahmood, appreciated Ethiopia’s socio-economic progress and highlighted the longstanding relations between the two countries.
Both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral educational cooperation and establishing institutional linkages between counterpart organisations in Pakistan and Ethiopia.
The participants also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthen relations with friendly African countries, including Ethiopia, and maintain the momentum achieved in bilateral ties.