Pakistan is keen to expand cooperation with Canada in food security, agricultural modernization and economic growth.

This was stated by Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, during a meeting with Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Tarik Ali Khan, in Islamabad today.

During the meeting, they discussed avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation in agriculture, livestock development, agri-business investment, and trade.

Welcoming the High Commissioner, the Federal Minister appreciated Canada's longstanding partnership with Pakistan in sustainable agriculture, livestock management, food production and agricultural innovation.

Rana Tanveer Hussain highlighted that Canada is one of Pakistan's most important agricultural partners.

He informed the High Commissioner that Pakistan spends nearly 4 to 5 billion US dollars annually on edible oil imports and is actively pursuing policies to boost domestic oilseed production.

The Minister also underscored Pakistan's potential as an exporter of high-quality agricultural products, including mangoes, rice, kinnow, dates and halal meat products.

Rana Tanveer Hussain proposed joint initiatives in hybrid seed research, livestock breed improvement, embryo transfer technology, feed formulation, farm mechanization, dairy and meat processing, packaging technologies and agricultural value chains.

He also sought Canadian technical support for capacity building, animal health information systems, import risk assessment and disease control programs.

Speaking on the occasion, Canadian High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan reaffirmed Canada's commitment to strengthening its partnership with Pakistan in agriculture and agri-business.