Commissioner Faisalabad, Irish Deputy Head of Mission Discuss Trade, Environment & Minority Rights

By: FT Correspondent
FAISALABAD: Commissioner Faisalabad, Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, met with Mr. Declan Johnston, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Ireland in Pakistan, to discuss opportunities for strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, environmental sustainability, and minority welfare.
Welcoming the Irish diplomat to Faisalabad, the Commissioner said the Commissioner Office would continue to promote stronger relations with Ireland, especially in the business and industrial sectors. He highlighted that during his tenure as Director General of the Environmental Protection Agency, significant reforms were introduced to make industries more environmentally sustainable.
Dr. Sheikh said industrial units are being encouraged to install wastewater treatment plants, while efforts are being intensified to implement the industrial relocation plan. He added that industries are also being guided to meet environmental standards required under the GSP+ framework, noting that Faisalabad, as Pakistan’s leading industrial hub, places environmental compliance among its highest priorities.
The Commissioner briefed the visiting diplomat on ongoing development and infrastructure projects across the division. He announced that a new phase of construction and development would commence next week, featuring a sustainable urban development model, rehabilitation of city roads, and beautification initiatives throughout the region.
Emphasising the administration’s commitment to inclusivity, Dr. Sheikh said the protection of minority rights and timely resolution of their issues remains a top priority. He announced the establishment of a Minority Cell at the Commissioner Office, with similar cells to be created in all districts of the division to address minority-related concerns on a priority basis.
Mr. Declan Johnston said it was his first visit to Faisalabad and expressed his appreciation for the city’s development and environment-friendly initiatives. He reaffirmed Ireland’s interest in promoting business cooperation with Faisalabad and praised the Commissioner’s efforts to safeguard minority rights and promote inclusive governance.