ISLAMABAD, Thursday, July 31, 2025 (WNP): The Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and Islamic Relief Pakistan (IRP) on Thursday signed a landmark three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly address climate change, economic sustainability, and social equity across the country in a significant move to bolster Pakistan’s climate resilience and sustainable development goals.

The MoU was formally signed by SDPI Executive Director Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri and IRP Country Director Asif Ali Sherazi at a ceremony in Islamabad.

The agreement outlines a robust framework for collaboration in critical areas including climate adaptation and mitigation, disaster risk reduction, circular economy promotion, green jobs creation, and digital innovation for sustainable development.

Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Suleri emphasized the transformative potential of cross-sector partnerships. “Bridging the gap between evidence-based research and on-ground humanitarian action is key to solving Pakistan’s development challenges,” he said. “Together, we can ensure policies are not only well-informed but also effectively implemented to benefit the most vulnerable.”

Echoing this vision, Sherazi reaffirmed Islamic Relief’s commitment to climate justice and community empowerment. “This partnership enables us to combine our strengths, scale up climate action, and extend critical social protections to those who need them most,” he noted.

The agreement also paves the way for joint research projects, nationwide advocacy campaigns, capacity-building initiatives targeting youth and the private sector, and collaborative policy dialogues. Additionally, the MoU allows both organizations to pursue joint funding opportunities and implement consortium-based development programs to maximize outreach and impact.

As climate threats and social inequalities intensify across the region, this strategic alliance positions SDPI and IRP at the forefront of Pakistan’s journey toward sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development.