UN development program names Pakistani climber Samina Baig a goodwill ambassador

Published February 26, 2018
Samina Baig and her brother Mirza Ali raise the Pakistani flag on top of Mt Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe. — Dawn/File
Samina Baig and her brother Mirza Ali raise the Pakistani flag on top of Mt Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe. — Dawn/File

The United Nations development program has appointed the first Pakistani woman to climb Mount Everest as its goodwill ambassador for the country.

A statement issued on Monday said Samina Baig will lead efforts to build national awareness and partnerships around the UN's development goals, particularly those related to climate change, environmental protection, youth and women's empowerment.

Born in Gilgit-Baltistan, at the age of 22 Baig became the first Pakistani woman to climb the storied mountain. By the time she turned 23, she had climbed the highest mountain on each of the world's seven continents. She heads the Pakistan Youth Outreach Foundation to encourage youth in outdoor activities.

Neil Buhne, the UN's resident coordinator in Pakistan, said Baig will use her position to shine a light on issues that shape Pakistan's future.

Opinion

Editorial

‘Source of terror’
Updated 29 Mar, 2024

‘Source of terror’

It is clear that going after militant groups inside Afghanistan unilaterally presents its own set of difficulties.
Chipping in
29 Mar, 2024

Chipping in

FEDERAL infrastructure development schemes are located in the provinces. Most such projects — for instance,...
Toxic emitters
29 Mar, 2024

Toxic emitters

IT is concerning to note that dozens of industries have been violating environmental laws in and around Islamabad....
Judiciary’s SOS
Updated 28 Mar, 2024

Judiciary’s SOS

The ball is now in CJP Isa’s court, and he will feel pressure to take action.
Data protection
28 Mar, 2024

Data protection

WHAT do we want? Data protection laws. When do we want them? Immediately. Without delay, if we are to prevent ...
Selling humans
28 Mar, 2024

Selling humans

HUMAN traders feed off economic distress; they peddle promises of a better life to the impoverished who, mired in...