
By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, July 30 (Diplomatic Star): Ethiopian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, has been honored with the title of “Ambassador of Margalla Hills National Park” in recognition of his consistent efforts to promote environmental sustainability in Islamabad.
The title was conferred by the Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Muhammad Ali Randhawa and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, during a meeting held at CDA Headquarters.
The two dignitaries exchanged ideas for future collaboration in smart city solutions, urban afforestation, and capacity building through institutional partnerships and technical cooperation.
Ambassador Beker briefed Chairman Randhawa on Ethiopia’s landmark Corridor Development Project, spearheaded by Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed.
The initiative focuses on infrastructure uplift, mass plantation drives, and riverside beautification to enhance urban living standards in Ethiopian cities.
He proposed establishing a sister city partnership between Addis Ababa and Islamabad, aimed at deepening cultural exchange and trade relations.
The Ambassador also informed the CDA Chairman of the Ethiopian Embassy’s upcoming tree plantation drive in Islamabad, inspired by Ethiopia’s “Green Legacy Initiative,” and invited him to join the campaign to promote awareness about climate change and urban reforestation.
Chairman Randhawa appreciated the Ambassador’s visionary leadership in clean and green activities, particularly within the Margalla Hills National Park.
He also briefed the Ambassador on key development initiatives being carried out in Islamabad and shared CDA’s long-term vision for transforming the capital into a modern, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable city.
He expressed interest in learning from Ethiopia’s urban development models, particularly in riverfront rejuvenation and climate-smart planning.