Islamabad, The European Union (EU) and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) have inked an agreement to launch a significant climate initiative in the urban centers of Punjab. This new project focuses on improving access to drinking water and sanitation services in the region.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the agreement was formalized in Islamabad by EU Ambassador Dr. Riina Kionka and Julie Marsaudon, the Deputy Director of AFD for Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The initiative aims to install 200 kilometers of new water supply pipes and provide 55,000 new connections, significantly enhancing water accessibility in these urban areas.

The project is designed to boost capacities, with a plan to increase water treatment capacity by 135,000 cubic meters per day and strengthen urban water governance. It is expected to benefit around 400,000 individuals, improving their access to clean drinking water.

EU Ambassador Dr. Kionka, speaking at the signing ceremony, emphasized the EU’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in its efforts to build resilience against climate change. She highlighted the EU’s readiness to intensify support for Pakistan’s green inclusive growth, marking this initiative as a step forward in that direction.