Islamabad, June 7, 2024_A new project agreement has been signed between the Italian Government and UNDP Pakistan. “Water 4 Development” is the title and it will be implemented in Gilgit-Baltistan Region thanks to a 3 MLN EUR budget and to the grant provided by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation. The agreement has been signed by H. E. the Ambassador of Italy in Pakistan Marilina Armellin and UNDP Pakistan Resident Representative Mr. Samuel Rizk, acknowledged by the Head of AICS Islamabad Office Mr. Francesco Zatta. UNDP Resident Representative also signed the project document with the implementing partners, the Italian Association EvK2-CNR and the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan Region, represented by Capt. Mushtaq Ahmad – Additional Chief Secretary.
Gilgit-Baltistan Region serves as main water source for Pakistan, beside being a favorite destination for international and local tourism due to its beautiful mountains and landscapes. However, local communities are suffering for shortage of drinkable and irrigational water due to access problems and lack of infrastructures. “Water 4 Development” will work on these fragilities combining activities aimed at enhancing environmental protection, supporting local authorities in natural resources sustainable management and fostering touristic offer.
“Water 4 Development” is also integrated in the Italian strategy supporting local authorities and communities to adapt to climate change and promote cultural heritage safeguarding. It also follows and relaunch the results achieved by “Glaciers and Students” project, that in the last years activated partnerships between italian and pakistani universities to train professionals and students in the monitoring of glaciers, providing tools to evaluate environment conditions.
