Pakistan and Bangladesh have agreed to explore stronger cooperation in agriculture and livestock, with discussions covering disease monitoring, food safety, climate resilience and improved farming systems.

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain met Bangladesh’s Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Abdul Awal Mintoo and Minister of State for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku in Rome.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the FAO Global Conference for Actions on One Health in Agrifood Systems.

The two sides discussed agriculture, livestock, fisheries and climate adaptation, while also exploring cooperation under the One Health approach, which links human, animal and environmental health.

Rana Tanveer Hussain said both countries face similar challenges because of their dependence on agriculture. These include climate impacts, emerging animal diseases and growing environmental pressures.

He said greater cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh in animal, human and environmental health could help improve food security and support rural communities.

The Pakistani minister proposed expanding cooperation in agricultural trade, research, farm mechanization, livestock breeding and technical training. He also called for stronger links between relevant institutions and greater exchange of expertise in agricultural and veterinary sciences.

Bangladesh’s Minister of State for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku highlighted livestock development, disease prevention, research and technical training as key areas for collaboration.

The officials also discussed climate-smart livestock production, better feed and fodder systems, disease surveillance, antimicrobial resistance, food safety and adding value to agricultural products.

Abdul Awal Mintoo emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to address climate change and environmental challenges. He also highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge and practical solutions to make agriculture more climate-resilient and sustainable.