Pakistan, China to sign MoUs for agricultural innovation and research: Food Minister

Islamabad: Pakistan and China are moving towards formalizing a broad-based partnership in the agriculture sector, as Pakistani Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain met with a senior Chinese delegation to explore joint initiatives in agricultural innovation, investment, and institutional collaboration.

The visiting Chinese team, comprising scientists, government officials, and private investors, expressed strong interest in key areas such as seed development, precision farming, climate-resilient crop systems, smart irrigation, and agro-processing. Minister Hussain welcomed the delegation and outlined a vision for transforming the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) into a world-class center of excellence with China’s cooperation.

“The time has come to move beyond investment and build long-term institutional collaboration,” said the Minister. He emphasized the urgency of signing formal Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between Pakistani and Chinese agricultural bodies to initiate joint research, technical exchanges, and field innovation projects. The proposal was accepted by the Chinese side.

Hussain directed PARC and relevant departments to immediately begin drafting proposals and concept papers outlining priority areas such as biotechnology, pest management, and sustainable farming. He also encouraged Pakistani experts to visit China to study successful models and adapt them locally.

The Chinese side praised the minister’s strategic outlook and pledged full support in expediting the proposed collaboration. The delegation agreed to facilitate technology transfer, capacity building, and scientific exchange programs within a defined timeline, said an official statement.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to elevate Pakistan-China cooperation in agriculture to a new level, ensuring impactful outcomes for food security, farmer productivity, and rural livelihoods.