Japan to help fight environmental pollution
By Ali Imran

Islamabad—Japan will help Pakistan in fighting environmental pollution. THIS was stated by Ambassador of Japan Seiji Kojima when he called on Federal Minister for Environment, Makhdoom Syed Faisal Saleh Hayat Saturday.
The Minister briefed the ambassador about the latest steps taken by the Ministry of Environment in an effort to control pollution.
These steps included introduction of lead-free petrol, minimizing the sulphur element in diesel, meeting EURO standard by 2008 for petrol and by 2009 for diesel vehicles, evolution of Vehicular Pollution Control Cell at EPA, registration of more than 150 factories under Self Monitoring and Reporting System to combat industrial pollution and approval of Energy and Sanitation policies. He said that Ministry ought to recruit more forest inspectors through provincial forestry departments to curb the unlawful cutting of trees. He sought cooperation in controlling vehicular emission, upgradation of vehicle inspection system, opening of car inspection centers, setting up of Zoological and Botanical Garden in Islamabad.
Federal Minister said that both the countries are enjoying deep rooted bilateral relations which would be further cemented with the passage of time.
He emphasised the need to share the experiences and exchange of experts to cope with the environmental problems. He thanked for the cooperation extended by the government of Japan in the field of environment.
hile appreciating the measures taken for the betterment of environment, the Ambassador promised to extend cooperation in environment sector especially the opening of Clean Drinking Mechanism project to control Carbon dioxide in air.—APP