US shows interest in cattle genetics | The Express Tribune
Key Takeaways
- The USDA is interested in collaborating with Pakistan on genetic improvement programs for dairy and beef cattle.
- The interest was expressed during a meeting between Pakistan's Food Security Minister and the Acting US Ambassador to strengthen agricultural cooperation.
- Pakistan acknowledged the significant historical contributions of US-funded agricultural programs (ALP, WPEP, AIP) in research, wheat yield, and value chain development.
- Both countries agreed to expand cooperation into new areas, including hybrid crop research, local vaccine production, and agricultural mechanization.
- Pakistan highlighted its focus on improving livestock health and expanding agricultural exports, particularly mangoes, to the US.
The USDA has shown keen interest in collaborating with Pakistan on genetic improvement programs for dairy and beef cattle to enhance productivity and improve the country's export competitiveness. This commitment was formalized during a meeting between Pakistan's Federal Minister for National Food Security, Rana Tanveer Hussain, and Acting US Ambassador Natalie A Baker, which centered on boosting bilateral agricultural trade. Minister Hussain praised the long-standing partnership, highlighting the impact of US-supported projects like the Agricultural Linkages Programme (ALP) and the Wheat Productivity Enhancement Project (WPEP). The minister also detailed Pakistan's efforts to improve its large livestock sector, including FMD-free zone establishment and traceability systems, noting Pakistan is a major importer of US Holstein cows. The USDA delegation reciprocated by expressing a desire to work on cattle genetics to support export growth, leading both nations to agree on expanding cooperation into areas like hybrid crop research, local vaccine production, and agricultural mechanization. The discussions concluded with Pakistan emphasizing its goal to expand agricultural exports, like mangoes, to the US through improved compliance and certification.
