Enhanced Pakistan-China cooperation urged in livestock sector

Faisalabad: Experts stressed the need to strengthen Pakistan-China cooperation to effectively address livestock diseases and enhance animal production in Pakistan.

During a one-day workshop on “Control of Major Livestock Diseases” at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), Professor Dr Farzana Rizvi, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences at UAF, highlighted that half of Pakistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in agriculture was contributed by livestock.

Emphasizing the importance of genetic improvement in animals for increased production, she outlined the challenges faced by the livestock sector, including diseases and climate change.

She expressed optimism that joint efforts between Pakistan and China could help overcome these challenges.

Sajjad Hussain, Director General Research Livestock and Development Department Punjab, proposed collaboration with China in areas such as vaccination and animal medicines to solve livestock-related issues.

In his comments, Professor He Cheng from China Agricultural University shared insights into the ongoing project aimed at controlling livestock diseases in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

He highlighted that livestock accounts for 11.3% of Pakistan’s GDP, with a substantial number of buffaloes, cows, camels, and sheep.

Dr Kashif Salemi from UAF underscored the importance of livestock development for achieving food security, emphasizing the tangible research work being carried out in this regard.

Several dignitaries, including Professor Dr Qamar Bilal, Dean Animal Husbandry UAF, and Professor Dr Jafar Jaskani, Director Research, were present at the workshop.

The event brought together experts from both countries to explore collaborative solutions for improving livestock health and production.