Chief Minister Maryam engages with the World Bank’s global director during the COP30 Conference.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz conferred with Valerie Hickey, Global Director of the World Bank’s Climate Change Group, during the COP30 Conference in Belem, Brazil.

The seminar focused on improving collaboration for environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and green growth efforts in Punjab.

Valerie Hickey praised Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s environmental vision, referring to her as a “Climate Change Warrior” and “Climate Leader.” She commended Punjab’s actions aimed at enhancing air quality, facilitating sustainable energy transition, and conserving natural resources, pledging the World Bank’s full assistance to bolster these endeavours.

The World Bank invited the Punjab government to engage in the Global Carbon Market and indicated its willingness to support initiatives concerning Clean Punjab, Air Quality Index (AQI) improvement, transportation, forestry, and wildlife conservation.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif extended an invitation to Ms. Hickey to visit Punjab, which she gladly accepted.

Ms. Hickey commended the Chief Minister’s speech at COP30, emphasising three passages that profoundly resonated with her. “The COP30 Conference ought to be remembered not merely as a collection of rhetoric but as a declaration of intent and dedication.” The Global South has arisen not merely as a voice of dissent, but as a voice of intent, and environmental sustainability is not an act of charity; it is a matter of justice.

She stated, “Maryam Nawaz Sharif has arisen as a Climate Change Advocate from South Asia.” As a female Chief Minister, she exemplifies resolve, ingenuity, and bravery in confronting climate issues.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed gratitude to Ms. Hickey for her commendation and reiterated her commitment to transforming Punjab into a global exemplar of environmental excellence.