To boost the production of dairy and beef across the country, the USA has shown great interest in working with Pakistan to improve the cattle genetics.
During a discussion with Acting US Ambassador Natalie A. Baker, the Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Husain, considered ways to develop agricultural cooperation with the US through the innovation plan.
Minister Husain appreciated the US for its long-standing support of the agricultural sector in Pakistan. He referred to the collaborations that took place, including the USAID’s $30 million Agricultural Innovation Project (AIP), the Wheat Productivity Enhancement Project (WPEP), and the Agricultural Linkages Program (ALP). High-yield seed varieties were developed, modern farming tools received a boost, and the entire agriculture value chain improved, all thanks to these projects.
He also praised US activities for the benefit of the agricultural education and research at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, and the University of Agriculture, Peshawar, which have played a part in the training of skilled professionals and the development of innovation.
Pointing to the increasing livestock industry in Pakistan, Minister Hussain said that Holstein cows are being imported from the US currently to raise milk production. He also mentioned the establishment of an FMD (Foot and Mouth Disease)-free zone as well as the development of a livestock tracing system as part of the national efforts aimed at reducing disease incidents, ensuring quality, and increasing the potential for exports.
USDA delegates inquired in detail about the above-mentioned efforts and reassured their willingness to work with Pakistan in the areas of genetic advancement, vaccines, and precision farming. The two sides committed to keeping in close contact to aid the sustainable growth of the agricultural sector, the strengthening of research collaboration, and the improvement of Pakistan’s capacity for exporting food of high quality.
