BEIJING – Pakistan and China have taken another significant step in strengthening bilateral agricultural cooperation. Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, visited Shouguang city in Shandong province to participate in the 27th China (Shouguang) International Vegetable Science & Technology Expo. Shouguang, widely recognized as China’s “Hometown of Vegetables,” hosted this year’s Expo with Pakistan designated as the Guest Country of Honour, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Ambassador’s Visit and Meetings
According to a report published by China Economic Net (CEN), during his visit from April 19–20, Ambassador Hashmi met with Shouguang Mayor Zhao Tianbao. The mayor briefed the ambassador on the city’s advanced agricultural ecosystem, including integrated value chains and world-leading smart greenhouse technologies. In response, Ambassador Hashmi highlighted Pakistan’s agricultural potential while emphasizing the need for investment and technology transfer to enhance productivity.
Collaboration Avenues Explored
Both sides explored concrete avenues for collaboration, including the development of smart greenhouse demonstration projects in Pakistan and the strengthening of institutional and business linkages between the two countries. The discussions underscored a mutual commitment to leveraging advanced agricultural technologies to boost crop yields and ensure food security.
Visit to Agricultural Technology Sites
Ambassador Hashmi also visited Shandong Lisente Agricultural Technology Co., Ltd. and a Modern Agricultural High-Tech Demonstration Base. At these sites, he observed climate-resilient farming practices and cutting-edge greenhouse solutions. These technologies significantly improve crop yields and enable multiple harvest cycles annually, offering substantial benefits for Pakistan’s agricultural sector.
Focus on Pilot Initiatives
Discussions focused on launching pilot initiatives in Pakistan, particularly in high-tech and protected agriculture. The collaboration aims to introduce advanced farming techniques that can help Pakistan overcome challenges related to climate change and resource constraints. By adopting smart greenhouse technologies, Pakistan can enhance its agricultural productivity and sustainability.
This visit marks a milestone in Pakistan-China agricultural cooperation, building on the strong diplomatic ties between the two countries. The partnership is expected to bring tangible benefits to farmers and contribute to the overall economic development of Pakistan.
