ISLAMABAD: New Zealand has expressed a strong interest in exploring opportunities for collaboration with Pakistan, focusing on the agri-tech sector. This development follows a meeting between David Pine, the High Commissioner-designate of New Zealand to Pakistan, and Pakistan’s Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, held today in the capital.

According to Radio Pakistan, the High Commissioner-designate briefed the Finance Minister on New Zealand’s strategy to reinforce its engagement with Pakistan. He underscored the significance of fostering direct business linkages and pinpointing areas of mutual commercial interest. The dialogue also touched upon the substantial number of Pakistani scholars and students in New Zealand, many of whom are concentrated in agriculture-related disciplines.

Finance Minister Aurangzeb stressed the importance of connecting these educational opportunities to practical outcomes in Pakistan. This includes the return of trained professionals and the application of their expertise to support economic development. He also emphasized the potential to harness technology and innovation to bolster economic cooperation.

The conversation highlighted prospects for collaboration in the digital economy, particularly in digital services, technology, and engaging young talent. David Pine reiterated New Zealand’s commitment to enhancing bilateral economic relations with Pakistan, advocating for increased business-to-business interactions and ongoing discussions to identify feasible cooperative ventures.

The High Commissioner-designate was accompanied by Ms. Avanthi Kalansooriya, Policy and Public Affairs Adviser of the New Zealand High Commission, and Moin M. Fudda, Honorary Consul General of New Zealand for Pakistan.