Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, is attending the FAO Global Conference for Actions on One Health in Agrifood Systems, being held in Rome from September 21 to 23, 2026.
The conference focuses on turning the One Health approach into concrete action across agrifood systems, bringing together international stakeholders to address challenges ranging from animal and plant diseases to food safety, environmental sustainability and public health.
Addressing the opening plenary session, Rana Tanveer Hussain said One Health was fundamental to Pakistan’s food security, livestock productivity, rural livelihoods and sustainable agriculture. He stressed that global commitments must translate into practical action at the national level, backed by effective coordination and implementation.
The Minister said Pakistan was focusing on healthier and more resilient livestock and food production systems. He highlighted disease prevention, improved biosecurity, responsible antimicrobial use and stronger veterinary services as essential measures to protect animal and human health and sustain agricultural productivity.
Speaking about rangelands and pastoral communities, he said pastoralists were central to Pakistan’s livestock economy and deserved greater support. Improved access to animal health services, water, feed and markets, he noted, would help strengthen their livelihoods while promoting the sustainable management of rangelands.
On food safety, the Minister emphasized the need to protect consumers at every stage of the food chain, from farm to table. He called for stronger surveillance of foodborne diseases and antimicrobial resistance, alongside responsible antimicrobial use under a coordinated One Health framework.
Rana Tanveer Hussain also highlighted the vital contribution of women to livestock production and household nutrition. He stressed that improving women’s access to knowledge, services, technology, finance and markets was important for strengthening rural livelihoods and advancing One Health objectives.
The Minister underscored that protecting human health requires close attention to animal, plant and environmental health. He called for stronger cooperation among relevant sectors to address shared challenges and build safer, more resilient and sustainable agrifood systems.
The FAO conference in Rome is providing a platform for dialogue and action on advancing One Health across agrifood systems, with discussions centred on practical solutions and stronger collaboration.
