UAE embassy organises ‘Ecothon 2023’ in Pakistan ahead of COP28
UAE committed to building bridges for sustainable development: Ambassador Zaabi
Islamabad: The UAE Embassy in coordination with the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme and other partners organised an eco-friendly 10-km marathon titled ‘Ecothon 2023’ in Islamabad to promote and highlight climate resilience.
It was the third consecutive annual run the UAE mission organized in the federal capital. However, this year’s run was special as it was organised out of the Diplomatic Enclave and open to the general public.
Local and foreign athletes in large numbers, officials, ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic community participated in the healthy and eco-friendly 10-km run as all the big and small vehicles were taken off the road and banners with messages of mainstreaming sustainable development and climate resilience were installed along the route.
UAE to support vulnerable countries
While talking briefly to media persons before the run, UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Al Zaabi said: “This is the third year we are organizing this marathon in Islamabad, and it is the first time it is taking place outside the Diplomatic Enclave.”
“As the Emirates is also hosting the UN Conference of Parties, COP28, the biggest forum discussing various aspects and impacts of climate change later this year in November, the UAE is set to focus on building bridges to advance international efforts to support the Global South and countries that are most vulnerable to climate change such as Pakistan,” the UAE envoy added.
We are in the process of finding practical solutions to ensure energy security while reducing emissions in Pakistan as well as the rest of the world.
Remarkable public participation
About the marathon, he said the remarkable public participation reflected the longstanding brotherhood, partnerships, and shared values between the two brotherly countries.
Ambassador Zaabi stressed on economic development and conservation of environment as the UAE will focus at COP28 on ensuring inclusive sustainable progress that protects communities most impacted by climate change, and appealed to civil society to play its role in driving “Climate Action” across key sectors to reduce emissions and build resilience.
He extended gratitude to the Government of Pakistan, Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, the Islamabad District Administration and Gerry’s Visa for coordination and facilitations extended for the successful organization of the event.