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ISLAMABAD, Dec 25 (APP): Experts, policymakers and industry representatives at a seminar on climate-responsive industrial development stressed the need for phased structural reforms to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improve export competitiveness and support sustainable industrial growth in line with Pakistan’s national policies.
The seminar, titled “Driving a Just Industrial Transition: Role of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and Solar Rush in Pakistan’s Textile Sector,” was organised by Alternate Development Services (ADS) and hosted by its Chief Executive Officer, Amjad Nazeer. The event was attended by more than 50 participants, including energy experts, economists, textile industry professionals and civil society representatives.
Speakers noted that better alignment of MDB financing with Pakistan’s national climate and energy frameworks could help accelerate clean energy adoption, particularly in the textile sector. A scoping study presented by Dr Ali Abbas Kazmi of USPCASE, NUST, and Usman Bin Ahmad of ADS, based on primary data from textile mills in Faisalabad and Multan, highlighted the growing role of solar energy in reducing costs and emissions while supporting compliance with emerging international trade requirements.
Another study on MDB policies, presented by lead author Twangar Kazmi, reviewed World Bank Group and Asian Development Bank strategies against Pakistan’s national commitments, including climate and energy policies. The analysis found broad directional alignment but pointed to gaps in implementation, monitoring and institutional capacity.
The panel discussions featured Dr Afia Malik, Qurat-ul-Ain Cheema, Aamir Imran, Zubair Faisal Abbasi and Abdul Khaliq, who discussed regulatory challenges, financing approaches and the importance of balanced transition measures for industry, particularly small and medium enterprises.
The participants emphasised the need for predictable regulations, improved coordination and stakeholder engagement.
Concluding the seminar, ADS CEO Amjad Nazeer thanked the speakers and participants and called for continued policy dialogue and coordinated efforts to support Pakistan’s transition toward a more resilient and sustainable industrial sector.