ISLAMABAD: The Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has assured a Chinese agricultural delegation that Pakistan will extend full institutional support to all joint projects and ensure a transparent, efficient, and facilitative environment for Chinese companies and experts working in Pakistan.

A 20-member Chinese delegation, led by Yuan Jianmin, Adviser to the People’s Government of Xinjiang, China, began a two-week visit to Pakistan on Tuesday with a meeting with the minister for national food security and research.

The delegation which also included Ma Xiaoli, head of Xinjiang Iron Brother International Company, will explore avenues of agricultural collaboration with Pakistan.

Pakistan is ready to work hand-in-hand with China in developing climate-resilient crop varieties, says minister

The minister reiterated that Pakistan and China cooperation in agriculture will become a model of friendship and progress.

“Together, Pakistan and China will not only secure our own food systems but will also contribute to regional stability and prosperity,” he said.

Mr Hussain expressed the hope that the planned visit of the delegation to Punjab’s agricultural lands and Gilgit-Baltistan’s proposed Special Economic Zone for agriculture would open new horizons for bilateral investment and collaboration.

The minister assured the Chinese team that Pakistan is ready to work hand-in-hand with China in developing climate-resilient crop varieties, introducing smart irrigation systems, and promoting agri-based industries that can enhance rural livelihood and strengthen national exports.

“Our cooperation is not confined to one area,” the minister said, adding that it extends to every field of agriculture and food security, ensuring a partnership that is both comprehensive and enduring.

The minister emphasised that Pakistan seeks China’s support not only in technology and mechanisation, but also in seed development, biotechnology, crop diversification, and water-efficient farming practices.

He stressed the need for exchange programmes between Pakistani and Chinese universities, joint research initiatives, and hands-on training for Pakistani youth and professionals in order to prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders.

“Our farmers are hardworking and resilient, but they need access to modern tools and techniques. With China’s cooperation, we can empower our farming community to compete at the international level,” the minister said.

Pakistan attaches the highest importance to its agricultural partnership with China, which Mr Hussain described as a cornerstone for achieving national food security.

He stressed that agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and that China’s cooperation will play a decisive role in transforming the sector through innovation, technology transfer, and institutional support.

He said that China’s experience in modern farming, irrigation, and research provides valuable lessons for Pakistan, particularly at a time when the country is facing climate change, water scarcity and population pressures.

Published in Dawn, August 27th, 2025