Pakistan and Italy have reached an agreement to collaborate on the promotion of olive cultivation. In this regard, the second meeting of the joint steering committee between the two countries was held at the Ministry of National Food Security and Research in Islamabad. Italian Ambassador Marilina Armellin, the Federal Secretary for National Food Security and Research, along with officials from institutions of both Pakistan and Italy, attended the meeting.
During the session, the committee approved the project’s first annual report and the proposed work plan for the second year. Financial and administrative matters, as well as future strategies, were also reviewed. The draft of the Olive Value Chain Policy 2024–2030 and its implementation strategy were endorsed as well.
The Italian Ambassador stated that the project reflects the strong relations between Pakistan and Italy. She highlighted that investment in the olive sector not only drives agricultural development but also creates employment opportunities for rural women and youth. She also noted the establishment of Pakistan’s first “Sensory Laboratory” in Islamabad as a major achievement.
Federal Secretary for National Food Security and Research, Aamer Mehmood Kiani, remarked that the Olive Culture Scale-Up Project is a key pillar of the national strategy for agricultural diversification. He said that through this project, Pakistan will see improvements in olive production, processing, quality, and market access.
The Olive Culture Scale-Up Project, funded by the Italian Government and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, is designed to enhance the capacity of public and private sectors, promote quality olive production, and strengthen environmental resilience in Pakistan.
The project places special emphasis on nursery plant certification, modern agricultural practices, and income-generating opportunities for women and youth in rural areas.
At the conclusion of the meeting, all stakeholders reaffirmed their full commitment to achieving the project’s objectives. The initiative is expected to become a milestone for agricultural growth and rural prosperity by aligning national priorities with international expertise.
