SDPI and Islamic Relief sign MoU to boost climate action and sustainable development in Pakistan

In a landmark move to strengthen Pakistan’s response to climate change and promote sustainable development, the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and Islamic Relief Pakistan (IRP) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The agreement was signed by Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director of SDPI, and Asif Ali Sherazi, Country Director of Islamic Relief Pakistan, during a ceremony held in Islamabad.

The MoU outlines a strategic framework for collaboration on key areas such as climate adaptation and mitigation, disaster risk reduction, policy advocacy, humanitarian response, circular economy, green job creation, and the digital transformation of sustainable development.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Suleri highlighted the need for cross-sector partnerships to address Pakistan’s most urgent developmental and environmental challenges.

“Bringing together think tanks and humanitarian organizations enables us to translate research into real-world solutions,” he said.

Asif Ali Sherazi reaffirmed Islamic Relief’s commitment to climate justice and protecting vulnerable communities, stating:

“This partnership allows us to combine resources, expertise, and reach to scale up climate action and humanitarian support nationwide.”

Under the agreement, SDPI and IRP will undertake joint research projects, youth and corporate training programs, policy dialogues, and public awareness campaigns aimed at accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Pakistan.

The MoU also opens the door for joint funding applications and consortium-led projects, ensuring broader impact and nationwide outreach.