We affirm collaborative endeavors with Pakistani scientists in advancing gardening and botanical

Islamabad:(PR&P, PARC) On the occasion of King Charles III birthday, H.E. Jane Marriott, British High Commissioner to Pakistan visited National Herbarium and Botanical Conservatory at National Agricultural Research Centre, NARC Islamabad on 3rd November 2023. She was briefed about the history and significance of National Herbarium of Pakistan and conservation activities at the Botanical Conservatory. She applauded the contribution of National Herbarium and Botanical Conservatory in the documentation and conservation of botanical resources in the context of climate change.

Subsequently, Ms. Marriott also visited the National Institute for Genomics and Advanced Biotechnology (NIGAB). Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, Chairman PARC, presented a comprehensive exposition of the research endeavors underway at NIGAB. Dr. Ali underscored the pioneering nature of the research conducted at NIGAB, highlighted its substantial contributions to the domains of genomics and advanced biotechnology. While discussing PARC’s recent initiatives, Chairman PARC, shared the institution’s most recent findings pertaining four rice varieties, recently approved, which are insect/pest resistance, drought tolerant and high yielding. Chairman PARC also apprised Her Excellency about the ongoing research endeavors aimed at combating the challenges posed by climate to the flora and fauna of Pakistan. Her Excellency also mentioned British Government’s support for Water Governance in Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of utilizing water-saving technologies to efficiently manage irrigation water.

Addressing the press, the British High Commissioner reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to collaborate with agricultural researchers in Pakistan. She emphasized the UK’s dedication to promoting scientific advancement in Pakistan by offering Chevening scholarships to enhance the research capabilities of Pakistani scientists. As a symbol of environmental stewardship, Her Excellency also formally planted a Callicarpa Macrophylla sapling at the conservatory.