The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has extended a helping hand to Pakistan in its ongoing battle against smog, offering both technical and material assistance to mitigate the environmental crisis affecting the country, particularly in the province of Punjab.
Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi, the UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, expressed his concern about the worsening smog conditions in the region, which have been causing significant discomfort, particularly during the colder months. Speaking with The News on November 9, 2024, the ambassador emphasized that the UAE was ready to continue providing support to Pakistan, which had been a long-standing partner in dealing with environmental challenges.
UAE’s Previous Support in Smog Control
Ambassador Al-Zaabi recalled the UAE’s previous assistance to Pakistan, highlighting the effective measures taken during the tenure of Pakistan’s caretaker government. In particular, he mentioned the UAE’s provision of specialized aircraft for cloud seeding, a technique used to induce artificial rainfall. This support helped alleviate the smog in some areas, offering temporary relief to the affected population. The ambassador emphasized that the UAE’s commitment to assisting Pakistan in such environmental matters remains strong.
A Call for Urgent Action
Describing smog as a pressing issue that causes discomfort to the public, Ambassador Al-Zaabi reiterated the importance of controlling the problem through all possible means. He commended the efforts of Pakistan’s administration, noting that the government has been taking proactive steps to address the smog crisis. However, the ambassador stressed that continuous collaboration with international partners such as the UAE could further alleviate the situation, especially as air quality continues to degrade.
Collaboration and Future Steps
The UAE government remains in close contact with Pakistani officials to discuss further measures that could be taken to reduce smog levels. Ambassador Al-Zaabi expressed his optimism that the efforts being made by the Pakistani authorities, coupled with the UAE’s technical expertise, would help minimize the health risks and environmental damage caused by smog.
Pakistan has long struggled with air pollution, particularly in urban centers like Lahore and Islamabad. Smog has been linked to respiratory illnesses, school and work disruptions, and general public discomfort. As air quality levels plummet, Pakistan’s need for international cooperation to tackle the smog crisis has become more apparent than ever.
In conclusion, the UAE’s offer of assistance is a significant step in strengthening the ties between the two nations and a vital contribution toward tackling one of Pakistan’s most pressing environmental concerns. With the UAE’s support, Pakistan hopes to see improvements in air quality, benefiting millions of citizens and helping preserve the environment for future generations.
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