Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad on 22 September 2025 with a delegation from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) to fast-track PARC reform. The minister welcomed the visitors led by Yan Yan and Long Wanrong, accompanied by experts including Professor Jia Yasheng, and stressed that agricultural research must deliver practical solutions for farmers and industry to safeguard national food supplies.
The minister outlined expectations that the PARC reform roadmap should contain clear timelines, measurable targets and sustainable financing mechanisms. He emphasized the need for a system that links research to commercialization and rewards scientists for innovation, so that talent is retained and research outcomes translate into increased agricultural productivity.
The Chinese delegation shared CAAS experience in addressing similar challenges two decades ago, highlighting issues that affect PARC such as funding shortfalls, limited incentives for researchers and constrained international cooperation. They urged long-term investment and stronger private sector partnerships to build a competitive and impact-driven research model.
Both sides welcomed mutual visits and exchange programs, with the minister recommending that Pakistani scientists observe CAAS research models firsthand. The existing memorandum of understanding between PARC and CAAS will be operationalized to ensure joint efforts become actionable and results-oriented.
Rana Tanveer Hussain reiterated that PARC reform is a national priority and pledged full government support to accelerate the process. With targeted PARC reform and close China partnership, officials expressed confidence that Pakistan can strengthen its agricultural research capacity, boost production and secure the country’s food future.
