Islamabad, June 27, 2024 – A high-level seminar was held for the project funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) on the Safeguarding of Biodiversity in Gilgit-Baltistan. The gathering provided an effective platform for Italian experts, government officials, community representatives and conservation enthusiasts to connect and share insights.
Mr. Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, Country Representative of IUCN Pakistan, delivered the welcome remarks, emphasizing the critical need for biodiversity conservation in the region. This was followed by a documentary presentation by the IUCN team, offering a visual overview of the project’s conservation initiatives. The highlight was the introduction of the Italian Government-funded Biodiversity Safeguarding Project, presented by the IUCN team, showcasing initiatives aimed at protecting Gilgit-Baltistan’s unique ecosystems.
A significant moment was the launch of the short documentary “Guardians of the Peaks,” which vibrantly depicted the project’s impact on preserving local biodiversity. It is pert from the Ghulkin, Minapin, and Khunjerab community organizations shared their experiences and the positive changes observed in their communities due to the project. This was followed by insightful remarks from Mr. Zafar Waqar Taj, Secretary of the Forest, Parks, and Wildlife Department, and Mr. Rana Saleem, Secretary of the Tourism Department, both from the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan, who emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism and wildlife protection.
The event also featured a special video message from Her Excellency Ms. Marilina Armellin, the Ambassador of Italy in Pakistan, expressing her support for the project. The Chief Guest, Honourable Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, praised the collaborative efforts and reaffirmed the commitment of Government of Pakistan to environmental conservation. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr. Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, acknowledging the contributions of all stakeholders and expressing hope for the project’s continued success in safeguarding Pakistan’s natural heritage.
