Pakistan, Iran cultivate new growth in food security

February 18, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and Iran agreed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in agriculture and food security with a focus on expanding technical collaboration, research partnerships, and sustainable farming initiatives.

The discussions were described as constructive and forward-looking, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepening economic ties, improving food security, and addressing shared environmental and climatic challenges through coordinated policies and joint initiatives, according to a press release issued.

The meeting was attended by Iran’s Minister of Agriculture Gholamreza Nouri Ghezeljeh, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, and Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan.

The ministers emphasized the need for stronger institutional linkages, regular dialogue, and practical coordination at the operational level to translate agreements into tangible outcomes for farmers and agribusiness sectors in both countries.

During the talks, both sides expressed satisfaction over the longstanding and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Iran, rooted in shared history, cultural affinity, and geographical proximity.

They underlined that agriculture remains a critical sector for rural development, economic stability, and employment generation, and agreed that closer cooperation could significantly benefit both nations.

Key areas of collaboration discussed included horticulture development, livestock improvement, crop management techniques, water conservation, promotion of high-value crops, and adoption of modern and climate-resilient farming practices.

The ministers also highlighted the importance of exchanging technical expertise, strengthening coordination between research institutions, and facilitating training and capacity-building programs.

The delegations reviewed ongoing cooperation under existing bilateral agreements, particularly in veterinary services, animal health, plant protection, and quarantine mechanisms.

Both sides agreed on the need to effectively implement signed accords, expedite pending institutional frameworks, and streamline procedures to ensure consistent and measurable progress.

Issues related to agricultural trade, facilitation of farmers, private sector engagement, and promotion of agribusiness linkages were also discussed.

The commerce side stressed improved connectivity and simplified cross-border procedures to support smoother movement of agricultural goods and inputs.

Concluding the meeting, the ministers reaffirmed their resolve to maintain regular engagement, enhance institutional collaboration, and pursue coordinated implementation of agreed initiatives.

They expressed confidence that strengthened cooperation in agriculture and food security would not only reinforce Pakistan-Iran relations but also contribute positively to regional stability, economic growth, and shared prosperity.

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