
By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, Sept 3 (Diplomatic Star): German Ambassador to Pakistan, Ina Lepel, on Tuesday reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development by participating in a tree plantation activity at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) House, Islamabad.
Ambassador Lepel planted a tree under the Billion Tree Afforestation Support Project (BTASP), a flagship initiative aimed at restoring forests, combating climate change, and improving community livelihoods in Pakistan.
Speaking on the occasion, the ambassador said Germany was proud to partner with Pakistan in advancing climate resilience through large-scale afforestation efforts.
She stressed that the BTASP not only strengthens environmental sustainability but also creates livelihood opportunities by involving local communities in forest restoration.
“This initiative is a remarkable example of how communities can take the lead in protecting nature while improving their own economic well-being. Germany will continue to stand by Pakistan in addressing climate challenges,” she said.
The Billion Tree Afforestation Support Project is supported by the German Development Bank (KfW), which provides financial and technical assistance for sustainable forest management.
The project focuses on rehabilitating degraded forest land, enhancing biodiversity, and creating a long-term ecological balance in the region.

Officials at the event highlighted that Pakistan is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, and such initiatives play a critical role in mitigating its impacts.
They emphasized that international cooperation and community-led actions are key to achieving sustainable climate goals.
The ceremony concluded with the reaffirmation of Pak-German friendship, with both sides pledging to strengthen collaboration on environmental conservation and green development.