Lahore: Pakistan and Australia have agreed to enhance cooperation in agriculture, skill development, and exports, focusing on expanding the Pakistan-Australia partnership in these sectors under the vision of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif. Discussions held between Senior Provincial Minister Punjab Maryam Aurangzeb and Australian High Commission representative Timothy Kane emphasized the commitment to equipping young people with modern skills and aligning the agriculture sector with contemporary technologies.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the meeting highlighted the progress in strengthening the provincial partnership between Pakistan and Australia over the past two years. Special attention is being given to skills development and providing modern training to young people, aiming to equip them with skills in demand globally. Mechanized agriculture and value addition in livestock, dairy, and agriculture are expected to boost agricultural productivity and farmer incomes.

Maryam Aurangzeb noted that the Punjab government’s PIVOT Economic Transformation Program, in collaboration with Australia, will train 1,000 students in market-driven skills. Australian master trainers will visit Pakistan to provide training, with a focus on women’s economic empowerment. Additionally, Australia announced 40 scholarships for Pakistan in 2027 for training in various fields. A proposal to organize a Mango Mela in Australia to promote Pakistani mangoes was also discussed.

The meeting also addressed launching training programs for women police personnel and promoting sports in Punjab. The Australian High Commission representative appreciated Punjab’s measures for child protection and safeguarding. The meeting concluded with an agreement to further improve ongoing cooperation projects, expand partnerships, and ensure mutual benefits for both countries.