ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to develop a detailed action plan aimed at transforming Pakistan’s agriculture sector, emphasizing the need for both short- and long-term reforms to enhance productivity, ensure food security, and expand exports.
Chairing a high-level review meeting on Tuesday, the prime minister described agricultural progress as one of the government’s top priorities. He called for urgent measures to modernize the sector, including the adoption of advanced farming machinery, provision of high-quality seeds, better crop zoning, and easy financing options for farmers.
“We must focus on increasing per-acre yields and improving the overall efficiency of our agricultural practices,” he said. “This requires serious investments in research and innovation.”
The prime minister directed that agricultural research centers be revitalized and strengthened through public-private partnerships, adding that modern research must become the backbone of agricultural development. He further urged the integration of artificial intelligence and smart technology to optimize production and resource management, suggesting the government should consult globally recognized experts for guidance.
Officials also briefed the meeting on the performance of Rabi and Kharif crops during the previous year, the ongoing challenges faced by the farming community, and the roadmap for upcoming reforms. The impact of climate change on crop production was also a key point of discussion.
Engagement with Business Leaders: Government Seeks Private Sector’s Voice in Policy Reforms
In a separate development on the same day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with prominent industrialists and business leaders from various sectors in a bid to strengthen dialogue between the government and the private sector.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to economic revival and export-driven growth, the premier acknowledged the business community’s critical role in stabilizing Pakistan’s economy. “The credit for the current economic stabilization goes to the tireless efforts of our team,” he noted, “but our next mission is sustainable growth, job creation, and attracting robust foreign investment.”
The prime minister expressed his determination to shift focus toward domestic resource mobilization, reducing dependency on foreign aid, and making Pakistan economically self-reliant. He emphasized that policy decisions must reflect the concerns and aspirations of the business community.
He also announced that monthly meetings would now be held with representatives of the business sector to foster continuous dialogue and shared ownership of economic reforms. “This journey of progress requires mutual effort, long-term vision, and unwavering determination,” he said.
Business leaders present at the meeting welcomed the move, calling the recently passed budget pro-business and supportive of industrial growth. They praised the government’s initiatives in improving transparency in customs, streamlining FBR systems, and pushing forward reforms in taxation.
They further urged the government to enhance facilitation for exporters and ensure that future policies are aligned with the evolving needs of industry, especially in the areas of foreign direct investment, digitalization, and global competitiveness.
