Pakistan, Qatar to deepen agri-cooperation

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain held a meeting with the Ambassador of Qatar to Pakistan, Ali bin Mubarak Al Khater, on Wednesday to explore ways to strengthen agricultural cooperation and turn bilateral relations into deeper economic partnerships.

Welcoming the ambassador, the minister said Pakistan and Qatar enjoy strong brotherly ties based on trust and shared values. “Pakistan stands with Qatar in every situation; we are one nation with a shared vision for regional prosperity,” he said. As per an official statement, Hussain noted that despite close relations, agricultural collaboration remains limited, with Pakistan’s exports to Qatar far below regional competitors like India. He said Pakistan could become a reliable supplier of halal meat, fruits, vegetables, rice, and animal feed.

He informed the ambassador that the government has reduced bureaucratic hurdles and improved the investment climate to attract foreign investors. The minister proposed creating a Joint Working Group on Agriculture to structure cooperation and identify priority projects.

Hussain briefed the envoy on Pakistan’s new agricultural ventures, including the production and export of dry camel milk, which is already being sold in the United States and China. Saudi Arabia has also expressed interest in importing it. He said investment-ready projects for Rhodes grass and industrial-scale feedlot fattening farms could help Qatar meet its food and feed security needs.

“Our government encourages Qatari investors to explore Pakistan’s vast agri-sector. We will facilitate partnerships, provide land access, and ensure coordination at every stage,” he said. Ambassador Al Khater said Pakistan’s agricultural potential and skilled workforce could play a key role in Qatar’s food security strategy under Vision 2030. He announced that the Qatari Minister of Commerce would soon visit Pakistan.