Govt eyes deeper agri ties with Germany

ISLAMABAD:

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain has held a high-level meeting with German Ambassador Ina Lepel to discuss opportunities for enhancing bilateral cooperation in agriculture, livestock development, food security, research and technology transfer.

Hussain acknowledged the longstanding ties between the two countries and emphasised joint efforts to address global challenges related to food security, climate change and sustainable agricultural development.

The minister said agriculture contributes nearly 25% to Pakistan's GDP, but low crop yields remain a major challenge. He noted the government is focusing on agricultural research, certified seeds, mechanisation and climate-resilient crop varieties to improve productivity and strengthen food security.

Highlighting the livestock sector, which accounts for nearly 60% of agricultural output, Hussain proposed cooperation in livestock genetics, breed improvement, advanced reproductive technologies, animal feed development and foot and mouth disease vaccine production.

The minister informed the delegation that Pakistan is introducing its first biotechnology policy, which will create new opportunities for research, innovation and foreign investment. He also called for collaboration in traceability systems, food safety standards and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) compliance to facilitate greater access to international markets.

Lepel welcomed the biotechnology policy initiative and noted that several German companies are interested in exploring investment opportunities.