We’re fostering partnerships for a greener textile industry in Pakistan: Amb Alexandra
Islamabad: The Embassy of Sweden and Business Sweden, in partnership with global Swedish brands IKEA, H&M, and Atlas Copco, successfully organized a high-level Policy Dialogue on Green Energy and Energy Efficiency in Pakistan’s Textile Sector. The event, held in Islamabad, brought together key government officials, industry leaders, and sustainability experts to discuss strategies for transitioning Pakistan’s textile industry toward a greener and more competitive future. The dialogue focused on renewable energy integration, policy reforms, and sustainable business models to enhance the sector’s global competitiveness.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, Federal Minister for Power Division and Energy, who emphasized the government’s commitment to clean energy solutions. “Pakistan’s textile industry is the backbone of our economy, and ensuring its sustainability is critical for long-term growth,” he stated. Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, and Jawad Paul, Secretary of Commerce, also participated as Guests of Honour, highlighting the government’s dedication to fostering a sustainable industrial ecosystem.
A key focus of the discussions was the potential of Offsite Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to facilitate renewable energy procurement, improve energy affordability, and enhance energy security. Participants also stressed the need for legislative and regulatory reforms to promote energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and align with global standards, particularly the EU’s environmental due diligence laws. These measures are seen as essential for Pakistan’s textile sector to remain competitive in international markets.
Sweden’s leadership in sustainability took center stage, with Swedish Ambassador to Pakistan H.E. Alexandra Berg von Linde reaffirming her country’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s green transition. “Sustainability is at the heart of Sweden’s business philosophy,” she said. “Through the Sustainable Textile Platform, we are advancing partnerships that benefit the environment and ensure Pakistan’s textile industry remains globally competitive.” The platform, launched by the Embassy of Sweden and Business Sweden, aims to align Pakistan’s sustainability efforts with Sweden’s cutting-edge green technologies and best practices.
Mr. Emil Akander, Vice President of Business Sweden, highlighted the role of Swedish companies in driving Pakistan’s green transition. “Swedish companies have decades of experience in energy efficiency and renewable technologies,” he noted. “The textile sector has a unique opportunity to lead Pakistan’s green transition by embracing innovative solutions such as circular economy models, energy-efficient manufacturing, and climate-smart technologies.” These advancements are expected to help Pakistani textile producers meet global sustainability demands while strengthening their long-term competitiveness.
The event also featured in-depth discussions on scaling renewable energy solutions, including solar, wind, and hydropower projects, with a focus on financing mechanisms for industrial decarbonization. Public-private partnerships were identified as crucial for advancing Pakistan’s sustainability agenda. This policy dialogue marks a significant step toward a greener future for Pakistan’s textile sector, with continued engagement planned to achieve shared goals of sustainability and economic resilience. The collaboration between Pakistan and Sweden sets a promising precedent for global partnerships in green energy and sustainable industrial practices.
