Brussels (National Times) The Government of Pakistan and the European Investment Bank (EIB) today signed a declaration to advance a major project aimed at improving sewage and wastewater management in Karachi. The declaration was signed on the sidelines of the 15th Pakistan–EU Joint Commission being held in Brussels from 15–17 December 2025 by Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Mr. Muhammad Humair Karim, and Head of Division (Asia Pacific), European Investment Bank (EIB), Mr. Edvardas Bumsteinas.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Ms. Myriam Ferran, Deputy Director-General, DG INTPA (European Commission); Ambassador of Pakistan to the European Union, H.E. Mr. Rahim Hayat Qureshi; Head of the European Union Delegation to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Raimundas Karoblis, ; and Ms. Paola Pampaloni, Acting Managing Director, European External Action Service (EEAS).
The agreement formalises EIB financing for the Karachi Water Infrastructure Framework project that will support the rehabilitation and construction of key water treatment facilities in Karachi. With an EIB financing package of approximately 60 million, this initiative is set to significantly expand safe water supply and enhance water security for Karachi’s rapidly growing population. The project reflects Pakistan’s commitment to modernising essential urban services and promoting climate-resilient infrastructure in one of the country’s largest metropolitan areas.
Speaking at the signing, the Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs, welcomed the EIB’s increased engagement in Pakistan and underscored the importance of deepening cooperation with European partners to address critical development and infrastructure needs. He expressed appreciation for the EIB’s growing footprint in Pakistan and conveyed Pakistan’s interest in expanding the pipeline of EIB-supported projects in priority sectors.
The signing demonstrates the continued momentum in Pakistan–EU cooperation and highlights shared priorities in sustainable development, public service delivery, and climate and environmental resilience.