Gwadar Seeks Agricultural Advancement with Knowledge Exchange from China
A high-level Pakistani agricultural delegation recently completed a week-long visit to Henan Province, China, aiming to strengthen cooperation in agricultural science, education, and technology under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative. The delegation explored innovative farming practices and signed a key scientific cooperation agreement to support Gwadar’s agricultural development.
Exploring Advanced Agricultural Techniques
The visit began at the Zhengzhou Garden Expo, where delegates observed China’s state-of-the-art tissue culture laboratories and nursery management systems. These demonstrations offered valuable insights into modern plant propagation and horticultural innovation that could be applied in Gwadar.
Fostering Educational Collaboration
The delegation also toured primary and secondary schools within the Zhengzhou Airport Economy Zone. Discussions focused on student and faculty exchange programs and the integration of ecological farming concepts into school curricula—a model the delegates hope to replicate in Gwadar to enhance environmental awareness and agricultural education among youth.
Scientific Cooperation and Technology Transfer
At the Henan Academy of Sciences, technical talks were held with researchers from the Laser Manufacturing Research Institute. The discussions explored laser technology applications in crop management and precision farming, highlighting potential advancements for Gwadar’s agricultural sector.
A visit to Zhongmu County’s garlic planting base provided hands-on learning about high-yield cultivation techniques, harvesting, and post-harvest processing—practices directly relevant to Gwadar’s agricultural potential.
The delegation marked a milestone by signing a Sino-Pak Scientific and Technological Cooperation Agreement at Henan Agricultural University. This agreement focuses on introducing and cultivating Paulownia trees and other species, establishing a framework for joint research, technology transfer, and sustainable farming innovation.
Cultural Exchange and Investment Opportunities
Beyond agriculture, delegates visited the Shaolin Temple to experience China’s cultural heritage. Networking meetings with Yulin Holding explored future investment possibilities in Pakistan’s agriculture sector, opening doors for economic collaboration.
Owais Mir, a delegation member, expressed optimism about the visit’s outcomes: “We are confident that these learnings will help transform Gwadar into an agricultural innovation hub and improve food security through sustainable methods.”
Implications for Gwadar and Pakistan
Experts consider such international knowledge exchanges crucial for promoting agricultural modernization in Pakistan, especially in strategic areas like Gwadar. Leveraging CPEC’s infrastructure and institutional support, this cooperation is expected to advance regional food security and economic growth.
