Dutch bank offers loan for agri development in Sindh

KARACHI:

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has announced that his government is working to restore natural waterways to manage rainwater disposal in view of the 2022 floods and the ongoing impact of climate change.

During a meeting at the Chief Minister House on Tuesday with the Ambassador of the Netherlands, Mrs. Henny de Vries, CM Shah stressed the need for enhancing the canal system, irrigation network, and drainage system to mitigate damage from flash floods or riverine floods.

He referred to the colossal floods of 2010, 2011, and 2022 as catalysts for these improvements.

Ambassador de Vries acknowledged that the heavy rains leading to floods in Pakistan, particularly in Sindh, were due to climate change. She underlined the importance of developing climate-resilient infrastructure.

While agreeing with the envoy, CM Shah reiterated his government's commitment to restoring natural waterways for efficient floodwater disposal through natural gravity.

Investment opportunities

The meeting also covered potential investment opportunities in Sindh. Ambassador de Vries said that the Dutch Agriculture Bank is interested in providing loans for agricultural development, stressed the need for flood-resilient crops in light of climate change.

The CM welcomed this interest and assured that his government would coordinate with the Dutch Embassy to discuss agricultural support modalities. He invited Dutch firms to invest in wastewater treatment plants in Karachi, explaining that treated water would be used for industrial purposes and that investment in water treatment would be profitable. The Dutch ambassador asked for a list of potential projects for Dutch investors.

Ambassador de Vries also offered technical and financial support for livestock and fisheries development in Sindh. The CM instructed the Sindh Investment Department to initiate discussions with the Netherlands ambassador and her team to facilitate investment.

The CM presented the ambassador with the traditional ajrak made by Special Children, which she praised highly.