Pakistani delegation explores Romania’s animal eelfare model during visit to Cernavoda

ISLAMABAD, Oct 08 (APP): A delegation of the Pakistan–Romania Business Council (PRBC) visited the Urme de Bucurie (Footprints of Joy) center in Cernavoda to study Romania’s experience in animal welfare, rescue operations and the management of stray animal populations, with a focus on exploring practices that could be adopted in Karachi and other parts of Sindh.

The delegation was led by Atif Farooqi, Honorary Consul Designate of Romania in Sindh, Pakistan, and Advisor and Chief Operating Officer of PRBC.

The group was received by Adriana Susma, Director General of Save the Dogs and Other Animals, who briefed the visitors on the organization’s work in animal rescue, rehabilitation, veterinary treatment and population management of stray animals, said a PRBC release received here.

The visit allowed the delegation to examine Romania’s efforts to address challenges related to stray animals and to assess how similar approaches could be introduced in Sindh, particularly in Karachi.

Over the past two decades, Romania has developed programs aimed at improving animal welfare and reducing stray animal populations. The country faced problems such as abandoned animals, uncontrolled breeding and limited animal protection facilities. In response, authorities and civil society organizations introduced measures including sterilization, vaccination, microchipping, veterinary care, responsible adoption and cooperation between public institutions and community groups.

Save the Dogs and Other Animals has played a significant role in these efforts. Founded in 2002 by Italian animal welfare activist Sara Turetta, the organization promotes alternatives to the killing of stray dogs and focuses on long-term animal welfare solutions.

Through rescue operations, sterilization campaigns, veterinary services, rehabilitation programs and adoption initiatives, the organization has assisted thousands of animals. Its Urme de Bucurie center includes veterinary facilities, shelters for dogs and cats, and accommodation for rescued horses and donkeys. The organization also runs volunteer and adoption programs that help animals find permanent homes.

During discussions, both sides exchanged views on cooperation in areas such as stray dog population management, vaccination and sterilization campaigns, veterinary infrastructure, adoption programs and public awareness initiatives. The delegation showed interest in learning from the Romanian model and exploring its application in Karachi and other urban areas of Sindh.

Participants also discussed the connection between animal welfare, public health, community safety and urban management.

Romanian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Dan Stoenescu said Romania had gained valuable experience in dealing with stray animal populations and that organizations such as Save the Dogs had demonstrated the benefits of sustained efforts in animal welfare.

He expressed hope that Romanian practices could be shared with Pakistani partners and adapted to local needs in Sindh.

The visit was part of the PRBC delegation’s wider program in Romania aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and identifying new areas of cooperation. Facilitated by the Embassy of Romania in Islamabad and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania, the initiative reflected efforts to expand cooperation beyond trade and investment into social responsibility, community development and animal welfare.

The delegation thanked Adriana Susma and the Save the Dogs team for hosting the visit and sharing their experience. Participants expressed hope that the engagement would lead to further cooperation between Romanian and Pakistani institutions, veterinary professionals, local authorities and animal welfare organizations, helping to promote practical and sustainable approaches to animal welfare in Sindh.