inauguration of the second International Food and Agriculture Exhibition in Karachi, attended by several high-ranking officials,
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan has significant opportunities to increase agricultural exports.
By: imtiaz Ali Abbasi chief Reporter Islamabad
He emphasized that modern technology and research and development could boost exports, and the government is committed to providing support to farmers and exporters. The federal and provincial governments must work together to focus on agricultural development. The target for agricultural exports next year should be $7 billion, and 1,000 graduates will be sent to China each year for agricultural training. He also praised Arshad Nadeem for winning a gold medal in the Olympics, saying it has made the nation proud, and a grand reception will be held upon his return.
In his address at the inauguration of the second International Food and Agriculture Exhibition in Karachi, attended by several high-ranking officials, the Prime Minister congratulated Arshad Nadeem for his historic achievement, noting that it was the first gold medal for Pakistan in 40 years. He expressed hope for future successes in other sports like cricket and hockey, thanking Allah for Nadeem's success and acknowledging the inspiration and encouragement it has provided.
Prime Minister Sharif highlighted that Pakistan's agricultural exports have reached $3 billion and should aim for $7 billion next year. He stressed the importance of increasing per-acre yield through modern technology and practices and the need for collaboration between the federal and provincial governments for agricultural development. He mentioned that the government is working to enhance research and development and that Pakistan has vast potential to increase agricultural exports, especially through value addition.
 |
He also pointed out the need for increased loan availability for small and medium-sized enterprises in rural areas, noting that the development of these areas is crucial for the country's progress. During his visit to China, the Prime Minister observed how modern technology has driven agricultural progress there. He assured that the Pakistani government is ready to fully support farmers and exporters, and loans provided to farmers in rural areas will boost production.
The Prime Minister announced that the government has approved the conversion of 28,000 electric tube wells in Balochistan to solar energy. He also mentioned that 1,000 students will be sent to China for advanced agricultural training. Additionally, he noted that there are significant opportunities for cooperation between China and Pakistan in the livestock sector. Finally, he highlighted Pakistan's unique relationships with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Turkey, mentioning that these ties could be leveraged for joint agricultural projects and other sectors.
Afterward, the Prime Minister inaugurated the second International Food and Agriculture Exhibition, toured various stalls, received briefings, and interacted with delegates from different countries. He also presented awards to exporters for outstanding performance in the agricultural sector. Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Chief Executive of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan Zubair Motiwala also spoke at the event.
