Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on Friday, emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting exporters and producers in maximizing their contributions to the country’s economy. The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing the inauguration ceremony of the Food and Agriculture Expo-2024 (FoodAg24) as the chief guest at the Expo Centre.
In a symbolic gesture, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, alongside other dignitaries, performed the digital inauguration of the event. During his speech, the Prime Minister praised the commendable export performance of rice and other agricultural products over the past year, extending appreciation to the ministers, administrative secretaries, and all those involved in these achievements.
However, the Prime Minister highlighted that Pakistan’s potential is far greater, urging the need to operate at full capacity. He called for value addition to agricultural produce, stressing the importance of adopting the latest technologies and enhancing research and development efforts. The Prime Minister also underscored the necessity for comprehensive planning and effective implementation of policies to meet the sector’s ambitious targets.
Since taking office, the current government has implemented several initiatives aimed at promoting the growth of the agriculture sector. The Prime Minister referenced the project to solarize 28,000 tube wells in Balochistan, providing farmers with affordable electricity as a key example of these efforts.
Shehbaz Sharif also announced that Pakistan will send 1,000 agricultural graduates to China for advanced education and training in agriculture and food sectors, reinforcing the government’s commitment to capacity building.
Expressing confidence in the nation’s ability to overcome challenges, the Prime Minister stated, “nothing is impossible if we all put our best efforts.” He also took the opportunity to congratulate Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem for his gold medal victory and record-setting performance in the javelin throw at the Paris Olympics-2024, calling it a triumph for the entire country.
During the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with other dignitaries, presented awards to the top three exporters in the rice, fruit and vegetable, and meat sectors. Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal lauded the Prime Minister’s support for the agriculture sector, calling it exemplary and encouraging for the entire community. He highlighted the significant achievements in the food and agriculture sectors over the past year as a testament to the government’s effective policies.
The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) was also praised for organizing FoodAg24, which is expected to attract around 300 companies and 600 delegates. TDAP CEO Zubair Motiwala noted that Pakistan is exporting around 29 different types of fruits globally and announced plans for the next exhibition in Lahore in December.
The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Trade Minister of Turkiye Prof. Dr. Omer Bolat, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Atta Tarrar, Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, and other notable dignitaries.
