Pakistan’s Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI) and China’s Shaanxi Aerospace Breeding Engineering Technology Center signed a Commitment of Cooperation (CoC) on July 20 to strengthen long-term collaboration in agricultural research, climate-resilient crop development and advanced breeding technologies.

The agreement was signed during the official visit of Punjab Director General/Chief Scientist Agriculture (Research) Dr. Sajid-ur-Rahman to China, where he met representatives of the Shaanxi International Technology Transfer and Innovation Cooperation Centre and the Shaanxi Aerospace Breeding Engineering Technology Center, as per AARI.

“The Commitment of Cooperation marks an important step toward strengthening scientific collaboration between Pakistan and China in agricultural research and innovation,” Dr. Sajid-ur-Rahman said, according to a Gwadar Pro's report.

“By working together on climate-resilient crop varieties, advanced breeding technologies and knowledge exchange, we can contribute to sustainable agricultural development and improved food security.”

The CoC establishes a framework for cooperation in agricultural research, aerospace breeding technology, germplasm exchange, capacity building, technology transfer and joint research projects.

During the meetings, both sides discussed expanding scientific partnerships through collaborative research and innovation while exploring opportunities to accelerate the adoption of modern agricultural technologies.

Chinese representatives expressed their willingness to facilitate exchange visits involving scientists, farmers and agricultural companies from both countries to promote knowledge sharing, joint projects, technology transfer and agricultural trade.

“This cooperation reflects our shared commitment to advancing agricultural science through innovation and international partnership, according to AARI’s statement,” which added that it will expand exchanges and implementing joint initiatives that will benefit both countries.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China