Federal Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain held a meeting with Bangladesh’s Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Abdul Awal Mintoo and Minister of State for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku on the sidelines of the FAO Global Conference for Actions on One Health in Agrifood Systems in Rome.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in agriculture, livestock, fisheries, climate adaptation and the One Health approach, with discussions centred on shared challenges and opportunities for advancing sustainable and resilient agrifood systems.

Rana Tanveer Hussain highlighted the common vulnerabilities of Pakistan and Bangladesh as agriculture-dependent countries facing the growing impact of climate change, emerging diseases and environmental pressures. He emphasised that closer collaboration in animal, human and environmental health could help strengthen food security, protect rural livelihoods and improve the resilience of agricultural communities.

The federal minister underscored the potential for expanding cooperation in agricultural trade, research, mechanisation, livestock breed improvement and capacity building. He also highlighted opportunities for institutional partnerships, technical exchanges and collaboration in agriculture and veterinary sciences, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to a relationship based on mutual respect, sovereign equality and shared development priorities.

Abdul Awal Mintoo outlined the importance of addressing climate change and environmental challenges through coordinated action. He emphasised the value of exchanging knowledge, experiences and practical approaches to strengthen climate resilience and promote sustainable agrifood systems. Sultan Salauddin Tuku underscored the importance of fisheries and livestock sectors in supporting food security, nutrition and rural livelihoods. He underlined the significance of cooperation in livestock development, improved production systems, disease prevention, research and technical capacity building.