ISLAMABAD: Italy on Monday signed a loan agreement to provide €20 million (about Rs6.3 billion) to Pakistan to support the professional capacity building and extension in agriculture project under Pakistan’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) National Reform Programme.

Secretary Economic Affairs Division Muhammad Humair Karim, Secretary and Ambassador of Italy in Islamabad Marilina Armel­lin signed the agreement on behalf of respective sides in the presence of senior officials from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, and provincial departments, an official statement said.

The project aims to strengthen TVET system, with a particular focus on the agriculture sector, by enhancing professional skills, improving technical certification, and promoting innovation across agricultural value chains. The initiative is designed to build the capacity of farmers, extension workers, trainers, and other stakeholders through modern, demand-driven training programmes that contribute to increased productivity, sustainable agricultural practices, and improved livelihoods.

Under the programme, emphasis will be placed on the development of high-value crops and the strengthening of agro-food value chains. Dedicated training facilities will support stakeholders engaged in horticulture production, processing, and marketing, while fostering product diversification and value addition.

Published in Dawn, June 30th, 2026