Pakistan, FAO to strengthen cooperation in food security

Minister calls for greater knowledge sharing, research and innovation to improve agri-productivity

ISLAMABAD:

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain held a meeting with Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Deputy Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific Robert Simpson and FAO representative Rebekah Bell and exchanged views on strengthening cooperation between Pakistan and the FAO in agriculture and food security.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss Pakistan's agricultural priorities and explore avenues for enhancing collaboration in sustainable agrifood systems, food security, agricultural development and support to farming communities.

The federal minister appreciated the FAO's continued cooperation with Pakistan and highlighted the importance of international partnerships in addressing emerging challenges facing agriculture. He emphasised the need for greater knowledge sharing, technical cooperation, research and innovation to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen the resilience of agrifood systems.

Rana Tanveer also discussed opportunities to further engage with FAO initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable and resilient agriculture. He outlined the potential of modern technologies, climate-smart agricultural practices, improved food processing and youth-led initiatives to create new opportunities across the agricultural value chain.

The two sides exchanged views on strengthening institutional linkages and developing practical areas of cooperation that could support Pakistan's agricultural development. The minister emphasised that sustained collaboration with international partners could help translate technical expertise and global best practices into solutions suited to Pakistan's needs.

Rana Tanveer reiterated Pakistan's commitment to working closely with the FAO for sustainable agricultural growth, improved food security and stronger livelihoods for farming communities. He expressed the hope that continued engagement would further strengthen the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the FAO.