The following recommendations propose a collaborative and integrated approach to advancing green development in Pakistan, leveraging lessons from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and China’s development models, with an emphasis on finance, training, planning, technology sharing, and partnerships:

o   The Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Government of Pakistan, should establish a comprehensive framework for green finance policies and reforms. This includes promoting green credit, developing green development funds, and establishing a green bond market in Pakistan. These efforts should be in collaboration with China’s reforms commission to accelerate investment in sustainable infrastructure, particularly Renewable Energy (RE).

o   The Ministry should work in conjunction with China’s National Development and Reform Commission to provide training programmes focused on energy planning and the integration of RE. These programmes should target energy authorities and the workforce to enhance skills and knowledge in sustainable energy solutions.

o   The Ministry of Energy should formulate an integrated Energy Expansion Plan, drawing inspiration from China’s ‘5-Year Plan for a Modern Energy System.’ This plan should involve continuous needs assessment and resource introspection to identify and capitalise on new investment opportunities in energy.

o   Strengthen technology-sharing initiatives with China, focusing on the adoption and localisation of green technologies in sectors like energy, construction, and transportation.

o   Encourage Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to facilitate the implementation of green development projects. This approach can mobilise additional resources and expertise, contributing to more robust and sustainable outcomes.