Zubair Qureshi
The embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in coordination with the Prime Minister’s Youth Initiative, organized an eco-friendly 10km marathon on Saturday to highlight the mainstreaming of sustainable development and climate resilience into collective action.
A large number of athletes, officials, ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic community took part in the healthy and environmentally friendly 10km run on the Constitution Avenue in Islamabad on Saturday, February 25, 2023.
Speaking at the ceremony, UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Al Zabi said the marathon and the excellent participation of all walks of life reflect the long-standing brotherhood, partnership and shared values between the two fraternal countries. Ambassador Zabi added that the UAE, which hosts the largest UN COP28 conference this year, will focus on building bridges, advancing international efforts to support the global south and countries most vulnerable to climate change, such as the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and looking to ensure energy security practical solutions while reducing emissions. The ambassador highlighted economic development and environmental protection as the UAE at COP28 will focus on ensuring inclusive sustainable development, protecting communities most affected by climate change, and called on civil society to play a role in driving ‘climate action’ across key sectors, to reduce emissions and build resilience.
He thanked the Government of Pakistan, the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, the Government of Islamabad and Gerry Visa for coordinating and facilitating the successful organization of the marathon, and thanked the Islamabad Running Club, Pakistan Red Crescent and SOS Children’s Villages for their active participation in the marathon.