PICTURE: APP
BEIJING: China and Pakistan are deepening agricultural collaboration with the establishment of a joint research laboratory and the China-Pakistan Bio-Healthy Agriculture Science and Technology Demonstration Park.
The agreement was reached during a visit by Prof. Zhang Lixin, Chairman of the Silk Road Bio-Healthy Agriculture Industry Alliance at Northwest A&F University, to the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) and the Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI).
“Our goal is to share China’s advanced agricultural technologies to tackle food security challenges and improve farmers’ lives,” said Prof. Zhang.
Prof. Rao Zahid Abbas of UAF described the initiative as “a hub for innovation and applied research, boosting Pakistan’s food security and agricultural modernization.” Dr. Saddam Hussain added that it marks a new chapter in sustainable agriculture and bio-health collaboration.
The collaboration coincides with a 300% rise in Pakistan’s sesame exports to China in the first half of 2025, making Pakistan the fourth-largest supplier. Prof. Zhang credited improved market access and rising demand, noting plans to enhance seed quality, processing, and e-commerce presence.
A bio-healthy sesame demonstration farm is under construction at the Sahiwal-based park, leveraging high-quality Chinese sesame varieties and joint research. Trials have identified optimal varieties and production techniques, along with technical standards for bio-healthy sesame cultivation in Pakistan.
The initiative highlights growing China-Pakistan cooperation in agricultural innovation, sustainable farming, and food security.
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