China, Pakistan universities plan to exchange germplasm, boost bio-health agriculture

Northwest A & F University (NWAFU) in China, along with Pakistan’s Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI) and China Machinery Engineering Co Ltd (CMEC), has launched a strategic partnership to exchange animal and plant germplasm resources and modern bio-health agricultural technologies. This collaboration aims to enhance scientific research and cooperation between the two countries.

During a meeting at NWAFU in late August, representatives from the three organizations agreed to focus on advancing new agricultural technologies, developing emerging industries, and improving productivity, particularly in key crops like sesame and pepper.

The partnership has already achieved progress with demonstration fields in Punjab that showcase organic farming. The next phase will include expanding cooperation to talent development and technical training, aiming to cultivate high-quality students and vocational operators in agriculture.

Additionally, the collaboration will involve identifying key agricultural products for trade, supporting major enterprises in trade activities, and developing China-Pakistan demonstration parks to boost industrial growth. Short-term exchanges and training for Pakistani agricultural experts will also be promoted, along with agricultural technology demonstrations under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).