Global Experts Call for Climate-Resilient Strategies as International ICPPS Conference Concludes at PMAS-AAUR
The 9th International Conference of the Phytopathological Society concluded at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi after three days of intensive scientific dialogue focused on combating plant diseases in a rapidly changing climate. The event brought together leading national and international experts who underscored the urgent need for resilient, science-based strategies to protect global food security.
Researchers and specialists gathered under the theme “Combating Plant Pathogens in Changing Climate for Sustainable Food Security,” a topic described as both timely and essential by the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman. He highlighted that the combined pressures of climate shifts and emerging plant diseases continue to threaten agricultural productivity, stressing that collaborative research is vital to strengthen global food systems. He commended the organizers for driving impactful scientific exchange aimed at developing practical solutions.
The conference opened with Prof. Dr. Mohammad Akmal, Chairman of the Pakistan Science Foundation, as the Chief Guest, while Dr. Liaqat Ali Khan, Project Director Green AI, joined as Chief Guest for the closing session. Both leaders praised the efforts of the scientific community and encouraged deeper innovation to address evolving threats faced by farmers and food producers.
Attended by renowned researchers from Pakistan and abroad, the conference adopted a hybrid format that allowed many global speakers to participate onsite or join virtually. Experts noted that accelerating climate change is reshaping disease patterns, enabling plant pathogens to expand into new regions and intensify risks to agricultural resilience. Presenters stressed that coordinated scientific action is crucial to counter these emerging challenges.
Across technical sessions, panel discussions, keynote addresses, poster presentations, and an exhibition, participants explored the latest research and technologies in plant pathology. Scholars, industry representatives, and policymakers engaged in dynamic dialogue aimed at promoting data-driven solutions and climate-resilient farming practices. The three-day gathering reinforced the growing importance of international scientific partnerships in safeguarding future food systems.
Read in Urdu: PMAS-AAUR میں بین الاقوامی ICPPS کانفرنس کا اختتام، ماہرین نے موسمیاتی تبدیلی کے تناظر میں فصلوں کے تحفظ پر زور دیا
