Independent report
ISLAMABAD: The University of Agriculture Swat (UoAS) and China’s Northwest A&F University have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen agricultural research, technology exchange and export opportunities for Pakistani horticultural products.
According to an official notification, the cooperation will cover production and processing technologies, quality assurance, packaging, branding and compliance with international standards to enhance the export competitiveness of Pakistani agricultural produce and processed fruit products.
The agreement also provides for cooperation in livestock breeding, genetic improvement, joint research and academic exchanges. Training programmes are proposed for students, faculty members, researchers, farmers and technical personnel in modern agricultural technologies, production systems and food processing.
University of Agriculture Swat Vice Chancellor Professor Dawood Jan said the partnership would help Pakistani stakeholders explore advanced post-harvest technologies, food processing methods, cold-chain systems and quality-control solutions.
He said Pakistan’s diverse climatic conditions, horticultural resources and farming practices offered significant opportunities for joint research in fruit cultivation, crop improvement and sustainable agricultural production.
The partnership is also expected to strengthen links between universities, farmers and agribusinesses, translating research findings into practical technologies and commercial opportunities for both countries.
