The newly appointed High Commissioner of New Zealand to Pakistan H.E Mr. Hamish MacMaster called on Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan here in Islamabad today. H.E told the honorable Minister that after taking office that was his first visit to any Ministry and that shows how much importance NZ gives to agricultural cooperation between the two countries. Pakistan is exporting hides and skins of buffalo/cow to New Zealand, which brought PKR 7.9million in year 2017-18, Pakistan’s agro import from New Zealand consists of animal feed , feed premixes, animal products (bovine semen, edible offal, tallow) dairy products, sheep skin etc. Federal Minister told the honorable guest that Pakistan is world’s 5th largest milk producing country and annually produce 60 MMT; while only 6% could be processed. He said that New Zealand has a very strong dairy sector farming area along with processing and value addition, Pakistan would welcome any substantial cooperation in the field from production to value addition, he further told that cow fattening and enhanced meat production is one of the programs of PM’s Agriculture Emergency Project and we are looking forward to get technical assistance –machinery, technology and equipment from New Zealand. It is pertinent to mention that exotic bovine semen and cattle feed premixes are already imported from New Zealand, moreover that veterinary Health Protocol for import of dairy cattle to Pakistan has already been harmonized. Federal Minister Mehboob Sultan said that Pakistan is desirous of expanding its mango market as it is already exported to 48 countries of the world and even it is exported to Australia due to its unique taste and aroma, he added that we are hoping that New Zealand will consider importing mangoes from Pakistan along with other fruit and vegetables like dates, citrus, guava, onion and potato. Mehboob sultan said that ease of regulations may also be negotiated for the enhancement of bilateral trade, as the current volume of trade between the two countries does not reflect the potential agro-products; this may also be negotiated for mutual benefits. H.E Hamish MacMaster, New Zealand HC told the Minister Food Security that to facilitate and enhance the agro trade between the two countries he will play his role effectively and expressed his gratitude for speedy processing of pea seed consignment to Pakistan , case at the Ministry’s level and thereby resolving it amicably. Mr. MacMaster was told that Pakistan produces exceptional quality apple and cherry and it will welcome New Zealand’s offer for assistance for joint venture in Pakistan for the processing/value addition of apple. The Minister expressed his gratitude that most of the compatriots are enrolled in doctorate program in New Zealand and the program is very affordable and we are looking forward to benefit from the agro scientists after getting equipped with modern agricultural techniques and could contribute greatly. The Honorable guest said that he was greatly impressed with the potential that exists in the field of agriculture in Pakistan and is looking forward to play his role to strengthen the bilateral relations in this field and increase the volume of trade. ************
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