By Abdul Ghani

Pakistan and Türkiye have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in nutrition, food security and sustainable agriculture, with both countries agreeing to strengthen collaboration on policies aimed at improving public health and addressing malnutrition.

According to the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives' Monthly Development Update (June 2026), the commitment was highlighted during a bilateral meeting between Pakistan's Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives and Türkiye's Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Forestry on the sidelines of an international nutrition forum.

The report states that discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in agriculture, nutrition and food systems to improve food security and promote healthier communities. Both sides emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge and best practices to address common development challenges related to nutrition and agricultural sustainability.

According to the document, Pakistan highlighted its ongoing efforts to integrate nutrition into national development planning under the URAAN Pakistan initiative. The government views improved nutrition as a critical component of human capital development and considers better health outcomes essential for achieving sustainable economic growth.

The report notes that both countries agreed to promote closer institutional cooperation in areas including agricultural innovation, food production, nutrition-sensitive policies and capacity building. The exchange of technical expertise is expected to help strengthen programmes aimed at improving food quality, dietary diversity and public awareness of nutrition.

According to the Ministry of Planning, improving nutrition requires coordinated action across multiple sectors, including agriculture, health, education and social protection. The report emphasizes that integrating nutrition objectives into broader development policies can help reduce malnutrition while improving productivity and overall quality of life.

The document further states that Pakistan and Türkiye also discussed opportunities to deepen collaboration in agricultural development through the exchange of research, technology and institutional experience. Enhanced cooperation is expected to contribute to more resilient food systems and support sustainable agricultural practices in both countries.

The report highlights that food security and nutrition remain key priorities under Pakistan's national development agenda, with the government seeking stronger international partnerships to address challenges related to malnutrition, food availability and sustainable agricultural production.

According to the Ministry of Planning, the renewed engagement with Türkiye reflects Pakistan's broader strategy of expanding international cooperation in human development. The report says collaboration in nutrition, agriculture and food security is expected to support healthier communities, strengthen agricultural resilience and contribute to the country's long-term sustainable development objectives.

Credit: INP-WealthPk