Agriculture Research and Development Agreement Inked with China, and CABI under BRI

A delegation from Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, members Commonwealth Agricultural Bureau International (CABI) called on Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan.

The Executive Director Global Operations CABI, Ulrich Kuhlman briefed about the steps to be taken by CABI to facilitate both the countries to materialize the objects specified in MoU signed among the three parties.

A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding was signed between China, CABI and Ministry of National Food Security and Research, Pakistan in November 2018 for cooperation in Agriculture Research and Development under the Belt & Road Initiative.

The mutual areas of cooperation under the memorandum were cooperation in research, capacity building of agro-scientists, entomologist, regional pest management, quarantine facilities, weed control and Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) standards for food crops like maize, wheat and rice.

The CABI’s mandate revolves around pest control and research in entomology in commonwealth countries; China is non-commonwealth member of CABI and Pakistan is facing a sanitary- phyto sanitary (SPS) restriction which has limited its exports.

Hence, the purpose of the subject MoU was to formulate a plan of action which will equip Pakistan with necessary skills to meet the stringent international SPS measures to enhance its exports, which otherwise is limited in the area and which could be greatly enhanced.

The plan of action proposed that CABI and Pakistan Agriculture Research Council to nominate the scientists to develop initial list of bio-control research ideas, establishment of joint laboratory and relevant quarantine facilities. Moreover, under the MoU regional surveillance team of scientists would be formulated to keep track of the activities undertaken and progress made thereof, furthermore, the said team would monitor the existing laboratories, facilities to formulate proposals.

CABI’s Regional Director expressed that CABI is very keen and as well aware of Pakistan’s role towards this organization and hence under Belt and Road initiative will facilitate both the countries for maximum results with special focus on mutual exchange of training programs and technology for effective pest control and management thereof.

Federal Minister thanked CABI for its consistent support and proposals in this regard and assured that Ministry of National Food Security and Research would render maximum support to get things done well in desired time.