Punjab Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Discusses Cooperation with American Consul General

Lahore, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Punjab, Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, met with American Consul General Kristin K. Hawkins to discuss the promotion of mutual cooperation in the agriculture and livestock sectors. Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo and Vice Chancellor of Agriculture University Faisalabad Dr. Iqar Ahmed Khan were also present at the meeting.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, American Consul General Kristin K. Hawkins stated that American private companies are prepared to support the introduction of modern technology in Punjab’s agricultural sector and improve the production of quality seeds. She added that American scientists will soon visit the Agriculture Department in Punjab.

Minister Kirmani expressed appreciation for American financial aid and assistance in Punjab’s agriculture projects under the USAID program. He highlighted the Punjab Government’s focus on developing the agriculture sector under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, mentioning the “Transforming Punjab Agriculture Program” which involves a significant investment of 400 billion rupees, including 300 billion rupees in interest-free loans for farmers over two years. The minister also emphasized efforts to promote agricultural machinery and convert farmers’ electric tubewells to solar energy. He requested assistance from California State to establish a new citrus research and development center and revive orchards and nurseries in Punjab. Kirmani noted that 60 percent of Punjab’s agriculture is based on the livestock sector and outlined the Punjab Government’s initiatives to increase meat exports, milk production, and improve bread quality.

Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo reiterated the Punjab Government’s prioritization of agriculture, citing significant increases in wheat and rice production per acre this year. He emphasized the need for ongoing communication and regular dialogue between the Punjab Government and California State on issues related to the supply of large machinery, seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.