Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, today attended as chief guest the launching ceremony of the Third Phase of the Saudi Food Security Support Project in Pakistan. Held in Islamabad, the event marked another significant milestone in Pakistan’s bilateral cooperation with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly in the humanitarian and agricultural domains. The Minister underscored the importance of the project in supporting vulnerable communities and appreciated the leadership of Saudi Arabia for its continued commitment to regional stability and human welfare.
In his keynote address, Rana Tanveer Hussain paid tribute to the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for prioritizing humanitarian partnerships, especially in food security. He described the ongoing food basket distribution initiative as a shining example of solidarity between two brotherly nations, stating that such efforts embody not just material aid but also mutual respect and enduring friendship.
Rana Tanveer Hussain personally handed out food baskets to families during the event and interacted with recipients. He noted that this program, now in its third phase, is directly benefiting thousands of households across Pakistan, ensuring access to essential food items amid rising inflation and climate-induced challenges. He praised the practical role played by Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki in ensuring the effective execution of this initiative, calling him a reliable partner in further strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Following the distribution ceremony, the Federal Minister held a detailed one-on-one meeting with the Saudi Ambassador. During their discussion, Rana Tanveer Hussain shared Pakistan’s long-term vision for achieving sustainable food security through investment in agricultural research, innovation, and modernized farming systems. He highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing productivity, improving irrigation practices, and promoting climate-resilient agriculture to counter the adverse impacts of environmental changes on food systems.
The Minister proposed deeper collaboration between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in key areas such as joint agricultural research, technological exchange, and investment in food processing and storage infrastructure. He expressed Pakistan’s readiness to facilitate Saudi investments in agri-based projects, especially in high-yield zones, and called for institutional-level cooperation between research centers and universities in both countries to explore innovations in desert agriculture, water efficiency, and seed development.
Rana Tanveer Hussain reaffirmed that the Ministry of National Food Security and Research will remain at the forefront of facilitating such strategic partnerships, which aim not only to address present-day needs but to build a robust foundation for future resilience. He emphasized that Pakistan’s relationship with Saudi Arabia is rooted in trust, shared values, and a collective commitment to uplift their people through practical cooperation and visionary leadership.
Concluding his remarks, the Federal Minister stated that Pakistan deeply values the Kingdom’s timely and compassionate support. He reiterated that such initiatives are not isolated acts of charity but are evidence of a broader strategic partnership between the two nations. He assured that Pakistan will continue to engage with Saudi Arabia in all avenues of food security, agricultural growth, and mutual development for the betterment of both nations.
