Islamabad, 16 March 2023 (TDI): Special Envoy for Biodiversity and Water Resources Monica Medina, who also serves as Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, is currently in Pakistan.
Assistant Secretary Medina and the OES team are in Pakistan for the U.S. Pakistan Climate and Environment Working Group. Our nations share the goal of building a healthier planet – let’s move forward together! https://t.co/0eeJfcmEWv
— U.S. Department of State | Science Diplomacy USA (@SciDiplomacyUSA) March 14, 2023
During her visit from March 15-17, she will participate in the US-Pakistan Climate and Environment Working Group and address climate and environmental issues of concern in the region.
Special Envoy Medina is also engaging with government counterparts, the private sector, and civil society stakeholders.
Also, she is strengthening support for actions that tackle the biodiversity crisis, build resilience to impacts of the climate crisis such as flooding, elevate women in STEM, advance clean energy goals, and enhance science and technology cooperation.
“I am honored to be in Pakistan to engage with government and non-government stakeholders on critical environmental and climate issues.
We must work together to address the pressing challenges facing our planet, from the biodiversity crisis to the impacts of climate change,” said Special Envoy Medina.
Visit to Margalla Hills National Park
Furthermore, Monica Medina, along with Rina Saeed, and the Islamabad Wildlife Board, visited Margalla Hills National Park to view conservation and animal rescue efforts on March 16.
Today, Assistant Secretary Medina, @RinaSaeed, and the Islamabad @WildlifeBoard viewed conservation and animal rescue efforts @MargallaHNP. We applaud the impressive work done here to protect and conserve biodiversity and Pakistan’s natural beauty. pic.twitter.com/sJ4fBCCaIh
— U.S. Department of State | Science Diplomacy USA (@SciDiplomacyUSA) March 15, 2023
During the visit, she applauded the impressive work done by the Islamabad Wildlife Board and other conservation organizations to protect and conserve biodiversity and Pakistan’s natural beauty.
Also, she noted that Margalla Hills National Park is a vital natural resource for Pakistan, providing essential ecosystem services, such as clean air and water, and a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.
“Protecting biodiversity is essential to ensuring a sustainable future, and it is heartening to see the dedication and hard work of the conservation community here in Pakistan,” said Assistant Secretary Medina.
She also met with representatives from the Islamabad Wildlife Board and other conservation organizations to discuss ongoing efforts to protect and conserve biodiversity in Pakistan.
The discussions focused on the importance of science-based conservation strategies, community engagement, and collaboration between government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.
Visit to National University of Sciences and Technology
Apart from that, Monica Medina also joined students at the National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST) in Pakistan on March 16 to discuss the importance of the full inclusion and representation of women in STEM careers and public leadership.
Assistant Secretary Medina joined students at the National University of Sciences & Technology in Pakistan today to discuss the importance of the full inclusion and representation of #WomenInSTEM careers and public leadership. @OfficialNUST #ScienceDiplomacy pic.twitter.com/YFHRea9LLN
— U.S. Department of State | Science Diplomacy USA (@SciDiplomacyUSA) March 15, 2023
While there, the Assistant Secretary emphasized the importance of ensuring that women have equal opportunities to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and to participate in leadership positions.
“Women bring unique perspectives, skills, and experiences to these fields, and we must ensure that they have the support and resources they need to succeed,” she said.
She also highlighted the role of science diplomacy in promoting international cooperation on issues related to science & technology, noting that science diplomacy can help bridge cultural & political divides and promote understanding & collaboration.
In short, her visit underscores the US government’s commitment to working with Pakistan and other countries to advance environmental and climate goals, support the transition to clean energy, and promote sustainable development.
The visit of the Special Envoy to Pakistan is an important step towards strengthening the US-Pakistan partnership on climate and environmental issues.
Thank you Ambassador Blome and @USembislamabad! We are delighted to be in Pakistan advancing our shared #ClimateGoals.
— U.S. Department of State | Science Diplomacy USA (@SciDiplomacyUSA) March 15, 2023
To conclude, her discussions and engagements with stakeholders will contribute to the development of sustainable solutions that protect the environment, promote biodiversity, and build resilience to the impacts of the climate crisis.
