Islamabad (Web Desk): Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain has called for stronger institutional collaboration between Pakistan and Egypt in the field of agriculture, particularly in agricultural research, cotton production and modern farming technologies.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Egyptian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid Hassan in Islamabad, where the two sides discussed ways to broaden cooperation and exchange expertise in the agriculture sector.
During the meeting, Rana Tanveer Hussain specifically requested Egypt’s technical assistance and experience to help Pakistan increase cotton production and improve the quality of its cotton.
He noted that Egypt has considerable expertise in developing high-quality cotton varieties, producing quality seeds, adopting effective crop management practices and promoting value addition.
The minister said Pakistan could benefit significantly from Egypt’s practical experience in these areas, particularly as the country seeks to improve the productivity and competitiveness of its cotton sector.
Rana Tanveer Hussain also highlighted several other areas where Pakistan is interested in developing cooperation with Egypt.
These include water-efficient irrigation systems, seed development, biotechnology, climate-resilient and climate-smart agriculture, farm mechanisation, livestock, horticulture and agricultural research.
He stressed that Pakistan was keen to learn from Egypt’s technological advancements and practical experience in modern agriculture.
Greater collaboration between research institutions of the two countries, he added, could help facilitate the transfer of knowledge, technology and innovative farming practices.
The minister further emphasised the importance of strengthening links between relevant agricultural institutions in both countries so that research and technical expertise could be translated into practical solutions for farmers.
Egyptian Ambassador Dr. Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid Hassan welcomed the proposal and expressed Cairo’s willingness to expand agricultural cooperation with Pakistan.
He assured the minister that relevant Egyptian institutions would be encouraged to identify and pursue areas of mutual interest.
The meeting concluded with an emphasis on strengthening bilateral agricultural ties, promoting institutional cooperation and exploring practical initiatives that could contribute to improved productivity, technological development and sustainable agriculture in both countries.