Programme unveiled to help banks manage climate risks | The Express Tribune

In a decisive step towards climate-smart banking and investment, Pakistan has launched the Paris-aligned Finance Fellowship. Financed by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and implemented by GIZ Pakistan in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), the fellowship marks a milestone in aligning Pakistan’s financial sector with global climate standards.

According to a statement released by the SBP, the fellowship will bring together senior professionals from the central bank, commercial banks, development finance institutions (DFIs) and other regulators. By building their capacity in sustainable finance, the programme aims to help financial system channel more investment into clean energy, resilient infrastructure and green exports – strengthening both economic stability and competitiveness.

Global trade and investment rules are changing fast, with buyers and markets increasingly demanding lower carbon footprints and stronger sustainability standards.

The fellowship will prepare Pakistan’s financial institutions to respond to these shifts by adopting practices that integrate climate and sustainability considerations into lending, investment and risk management. This will help banks support businesses in meeting new requirements and in seizing opportunities from the global green transition.

“Strengthening the financial sector’s ability to respond to climate challenges is central to ensuring sustainable growth. The State Bank of Pakistan is pleased to support this important initiative,” said Maraj Mahmood, Managing Director of Banking Services Corp, SBP.

“This fellowship will enable Pakistan’s banks to unlock new opportunities for climate-smart investment while managing risks more effectively. It is about preparing the sector for the future of global finance,” remarked Maria-Jose Poddey, Country Director of GIZ Pakistan.

The fellowship programme will start from October 13-17, 2025, beginning with a Foundation Track in Karachi and an Expert Track in Germany. Fifty fellows have been selected, who are senior bankers and finance professionals nominated by their institutions.