Rome: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, is attending the FAO Global Conference for Actions on One Health in Agrifood Systems, being held in Rome from September 21 to 23, 2026. The conference aims to translate the One Health approach into actionable strategies, uniting international stakeholders to tackle issues like animal and plant diseases, food safety, and environmental sustainability.

According to Press Information Department, Rana Tanveer Hussain emphasized the importance of the One Health approach for Pakistan’s food security, livestock productivity, and sustainable agriculture during his address at the conference’s opening session. He underscored the necessity for global commitments to become practical actions at the national level, supported by effective coordination and implementation.

The Minister outlined Pakistan’s focus on developing healthier and more resilient livestock and food production systems. He identified disease prevention, improved biosecurity, responsible antimicrobial use, and enhanced veterinary services as crucial steps to safeguard both animal and human health and sustain agricultural productivity.

Rana Tanveer highlighted the importance of rangelands and pastoral communities in Pakistan’s livestock economy, advocating for improved access to animal health services, water, feed, and markets. He noted that such measures would bolster the livelihoods of pastoralists and promote sustainable rangeland management.

On food safety, he called for robust surveillance of foodborne diseases and antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the need for responsible antimicrobial use within a coordinated One Health framework. He also recognized the significant role of women in livestock production and household nutrition, advocating for better access to knowledge, services, technology, finance, and markets to strengthen rural livelihoods and advance One Health objectives.

The Minister called for enhanced cooperation across sectors to tackle shared challenges and develop safer, more resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The FAO conference in Rome serves as a platform for dialogue and action, focusing on practical solutions and stronger collaboration to advance One Health in agrifood systems.