Iran has doubled its imports of Pakistani agricultural products over the past year, a major development revealed during a series of high-level meetings held by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, in Córdoba, Spain. The minister is representing Pakistan at the 122nd Session of the International Olive Council (IOC), where he has engaged with multiple nations to strengthen agricultural cooperation.
According to an official statement issued Thursday, the Iranian delegation expressed satisfaction over the growing collaboration, specifically noting increased imports of Pakistani maize, rice, and meat. While praising the quality of the produce, the Iranian Minister sought improved supply chain synergy to further enhance bilateral trade.
Minister Hussain welcomed Iran’s interest and extended his gratitude to Tehran for providing increased market access. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to a long-term agricultural partnership that includes joint research, shared standards, and logistics enhancement.
In a separate discussion with Tunisian officials, the focus shifted to Tunisia’s globally recognized olive sector. The delegation expressed its readiness to share technical expertise, offer training, and explore joint research. Minister Hussain highlighted the potential of Pakistan’s expanding olive belt and invited a Tunisian technical delegation to assess opportunities for collaboration in cultivation and processing.
The meeting with Portugal covered wide-ranging cooperation in food safety, agricultural technology, and academic linkages. Portugal showed interest in joint work on animal health, fisheries, climate-resilient farming, and modern agri-processing. The federal minister welcomed Portugal’s willingness to pursue knowledge-sharing and joint ventures.
Minister Hussain also met with IOC Executive Director Jaime Lillo to discuss the final steps for Pakistan’s full membership in the council. Mr. Lillo acknowledged Pakistan’s active engagement and invited the minister to Madrid for a flag-raising ceremony and the symbolic planting of a Pakistani olive tree in the IOC Garden.
The minister concluded that these international partnerships are essential for strengthening food security, adopting modern farming practices, and unlocking new export markets for Pakistan.