**Pakistan, China Explore Enhanced Agricultural Collaboration to Boost Innovation and Food Security**
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has underscored the importance of deepening agricultural cooperation with China, aiming to modernize Pakistan’s agriculture sector and foster joint ventures in research, technology, and investment. The commitment was reinforced during a high-level meeting in Islamabad, where both sides discussed a comprehensive partnership to advance agricultural productivity and resilience.
A Chinese delegation comprising senior officials, agricultural scientists, and representatives from the private sector expressed keen interest in multiple areas of Pakistan’s agriculture, including seed development, modern irrigation systems, and the processing of agricultural products. Highlighting China’s strides in agricultural technology, the delegation conveyed their willingness to share expertise at the institutional level to benefit Pakistan.
Welcoming the Chinese delegation, Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to strengthen cooperative ties with China in the agricultural domain. He stated that upgrading the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) to a world-class research institution remains a top priority. The minister emphasized that collaboration with China could significantly enhance Pakistan’s research capacity, adoption of climate-resilient practices, and dissemination of modern technologies to local farmers, ultimately contributing to increased productivity and food security.
Minister Hussain called for the prompt formalization of bilateral agreements in agricultural research. He proposed signing multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering joint initiatives in biotechnology, crop improvement, pest management, and sustainable farming practices. The minister also highlighted the need for long-term planning to facilitate the exchange of scientific experts, technical training, and capacity-building within Pakistani institutions.
He stressed that this partnership should transcend mere investment, focusing instead on structured cooperation in research and development to yield tangible outcomes. The Chinese delegation welcomed the minister’s vision, assured full support from both the Chinese government and private sector, and expressed readiness to establish institutional linkages and facilitate technology transfer within defined timelines.
The meeting concluded with a mutual resolve to elevate the Pakistan-China agricultural partnership, pledging to work towards clear, practical results through coordinated planning and concrete actions in the coming months.
