Islamabad:A proposal to establish a multi-country climate investment fund in Pakistan came under discussion as Sweden’s Ambassador to Pakistan Alexandra Berg von Linde called on Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Musadik Malik here on Tuesday.
The ambassador informed the minister that Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken, a Swedish financial institution engaged in green lending, was exploring the possibility of creating a fund focused on climate-related projects in water, infrastructure and energy sectors across multiple countries, including Pakistan.
She said that the initiative aimed to help local companies reduce risks associated with climate-related investments and promote sustainable development. The proposed fund is expected to work in collaboration with the Green Climate Fund to mobilise climate finance, and she sought the ministry’s support in its role as Pakistan’s National Designated Authority for the GCF. The two sides also discussed the evolving global climate situation and its implications.
Ambassador Berg von Linde congratulated Dr Malik on his invitation to participate in the Arctic Circle Assembly, noting that it reflects growing international recognition that climate challenges transcend national borders and require collective action.
The minister emphasised the importance of cooperation between countries affected by glacial melt, including those in the Arctic region and along the Himalayan range. He said closer collaboration could help advance research and joint policy responses to the growing threats posed by glacier retreat and climate change.
Welcoming the fund proposal, the minister expressed interest in exploring the initiative further and suggested holding a detailed meeting next week between SEB representatives and the ministry to discuss possible areas of cooperation. He noted that Pakistan offers significant opportunities for climate-focused investments, particularly in water management, infrastructure development and clean energy.
