Pakistan, Australia Vow to Deepen Collaboration in Agricultural and Meat Sectors

Islamabad: Acting Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Ms. Nicole Guihot, called on Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production, Mr. Haroon Akhtar Khan, on Friday to discuss avenues for enhancing cooperation in Pakistan’s meat export sector.

The meeting, held at the SAPM’s office, was also attended by Secretary Industries and Production, Mr. Saif Anjum, and representatives of the meat exporters’ community. Discussions focused on unlocking Pakistan’s meat export potential, addressing existing challenges, and exploring possibilities of technical and institutional support from Australia.

Mr. Haroon Akhtar Khan highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, the government is prioritizing the promotion of the meat industry by offering export incentives and fostering international partnerships. He noted that Pakistan’s halal certification gives it a competitive edge in global markets and could generate billions of dollars in export revenue.

He further said that Pakistan and Australia are already collaborating in the dairy sector, and extending this cooperation to the meat industry would mark a major step forward. He underscored the importance of technical assistance and joint research initiatives with Australia to meet Pakistan’s export goals.

Ms. Nicole Guihot commended Pakistan’s efforts to develop the meat sector and reaffirmed Australia’s readiness to support through technical expertise, training, and agricultural cooperation. She also acknowledged the contributions of Pakistani professionals in Australia’s workforce and the growing number of Pakistani students pursuing higher education in Australian institutions.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations built on friendship, mutual trust, and multifaceted cooperation.