Key Takeaways
- Pakistan and China are enhancing cooperation in high-tech agriculture, focusing on smart greenhouse projects.
- Ambassador Khalil Hashmi emphasized the need for technology transfer and proposed concrete agricultural initiatives.
- Pakistan was named Guest Country of Honour at the 27th China International Vegetable Science & Technology Expo, celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations.
Strengthening Agricultural Ties
Pakistan and China are advancing collaborative efforts in high-tech agriculture, with Ambassador Khalil Hashmi proposing joint smart greenhouse initiatives during his recent visit to Shouguang city in China’s Shandong province. This development coincides with Pakistan’s designation as the Guest Country of Honour at the 27th China (Shouguang) International Vegetable Science & Technology Expo, marking a strategic moment in the 75th anniversary of Pakistan–China diplomatic relations. It highlights China’s commitment to enhancing sector-specific cooperation in agriculture.
During meetings with Shouguang’s Mayor Zhao Tianbao, the ambassador learned about the city’s advanced integrated agri-value chains and smart greenhouse technologies. Ambassador Hashmi highlighted Pakistan’s agricultural potential while addressing critical gaps in technology, yield optimization, and climate-resilient farming, areas where Chinese expertise can significantly contribute.
The discussions transitioned from mere intentions to actionable proposals, including pilot projects in Pakistan aimed at protected cultivation methods and smart greenhouse farming. This represents a shift from traditional cooperation to more applied, technology-driven partnerships.
Ambassador Hashmi also toured facilities such as Shandong Lisente Agricultural Technology Co., Ltd. and a modern agricultural high-tech demonstration base. These visits showcased advanced systems capable of supporting multiple crop cycles annually and increased productivity. The conversations focused on adapting these innovative agricultural models to Pakistan’s context, particularly in dealing with challenges like water scarcity and climate variability.
On April 20, the ambassador inaugurated the Pakistan National Pavilion at the Expo, showcasing a diverse array of agricultural products, including pink rock salt, Basmati rice, and handicrafts. His goal was to foster greater agri-food trade and business connections.
In his address at the opening ceremony, Hashmi encouraged Chinese firms to invest in Pakistan’s agriculture sector via joint ventures in greenhouse technologies and sustainable food systems. He highlighted various incentives available such as Special Economic Zones and favorable investment policies.
Furthermore, he underscored the ongoing cooperation between Pakistan and Shandong in agricultural research and training, establishing a solid foundation for expanding collaboration in areas like seed development and water-efficient irrigation techniques.
At a symposium on agricultural facility cooperation, Hashmi reiterated the synergy between Pakistan’s agricultural requirements and Shouguang’s technological capabilities. He proposed initiatives for knowledge transfer, including a dedicated symposium in Pakistan and exchange visits for experts, enterprises, and farmers, aimed at adapting Chinese innovations to benefit Pakistan’s agricultural ecosystem.
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