WORLD
ABU DHABI: In a proud moment for Pakistan, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, attended the grand ceremony of the 17th Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation held at the Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi. The event celebrated global excellence in agricultural innovation, recognizing award-winning scientists including Pakistan’s Dr. Ghulam Sarwar Markhand, who was honored in the prestigious “Influential Figure” category.
Hosted under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister, the ceremony also marked a significant milestone in bilateral agricultural cooperation with the signing of an MoU to host the Second Pakistan International Date Palm Festival 2025—to be held later this year in Pakistan.
Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain praised the UAE’s visionary leadership for promoting sustainable agriculture and fostering international partnerships. “The Khalifa International Award is a beacon of excellence in agricultural advancement, and Pakistan takes great pride in Dr. Markhand’s recognition,” said the minister. “This achievement reflects Pakistan’s commitment to scientific research and sustainable farming, aligned with global efforts to combat food insecurity and climate change.”
The MoU for the upcoming festival was signed by Minister Hussain and Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid, General Secretary of the Khalifa International Award. The event also honored several national and international figures for their contributions to the growth of the date palm industry, including Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi of Pakistan and H.E. Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Alzaabi, the UAE’s Ambassador to Pakistan.
Minister Hussain’s participation reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to agricultural innovation and deepened its partnership with the UAE in addressing food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development. – ERMD
