Karachi, October 5, 2023 – The Ambassador of Denmark, Jakob Linulf, has offered valuable advice to Pakistan in overcoming its current energy crisis by transitioning towards renewable energy and adopting a green economy.
Drawing upon Denmark’s own experiences of economic challenges in the 1970s and 1980s when the nation faced bankruptcy, Ambassador Linulf highlighted how Denmark successfully transformed its economy from one dependent on oil and coal to a sustainable and green model. This transition not only helped Denmark recover but also positioned it uniquely on the global stage.
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During a meeting at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), Ambassador Linulf urged Pakistan to consider a similar transformation. He emphasized Pakistan’s abundant wind resources, especially in Sindh and Baluchistan, which could be harnessed to produce renewable energy through the installation of wind turbines connected to the national grid. Furthermore, he suggested that Pakistan could take advantage of its abundant sunlight by deploying solar panels, reducing its dependency on imported oil and promoting clean and affordable renewable energy.
Ambassador Linulf also pointed out Pakistan’s significant hydroelectric power potential that could be efficiently harnessed to produce renewable energy. Denmark, as a pioneer in renewable energy, offered to share expertise, technology, and advice with Pakistan in this crucial area.
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He stressed that energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy should be at the forefront of Pakistan’s strategy to address its energy challenges, and Denmark was ready to provide assistance in these endeavors.
Regarding trade relations between the two countries, Ambassador Linulf acknowledged that despite cordial relations, Denmark-Pakistan bilateral trade remained below its full potential. He encouraged Danish companies to explore opportunities in Pakistan’s textiles, dairy, and agriculture sectors, including the possibility of exporting fruits and vegetables.
Ambassador Linulf also highlighted the need to improve Pakistan’s perception in Europe, as some European businesses remained hesitant to invest in Pakistan or engage in trade. He called for creative and visionary approaches to enhance trade between Denmark and Pakistan.
President of KCCI, Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh, welcomed the Danish Ambassador and emphasized the need to increase bilateral trade volume, which had not reached its potential. He mentioned that Pakistan’s exports to Denmark had declined to $208 million in FY23, down by 29 percent compared to the previous year.
President Sheikh expressed hope that Denmark, as an influential EU leader, would support the extension of Pakistan’s GSP Plus status beyond December 2023, given its previous role in securing the status.
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In conclusion, Ambassador Linulf’s advice on adopting renewable energy and a green economy comes at a crucial time for Pakistan, as it faces energy challenges and aims to enhance its economic growth. Collaborating with Denmark, a leader in sustainable practices, could offer Pakistan valuable insights and opportunities for growth and sustainability.
