Abu Dhabi: Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, participated in the 17th Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation ceremony at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. The event, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, celebrated global achievements in agricultural innovation.

Among the honorees was Pakistani scientist Dr. Ghulam Sarwar Markhand, who received recognition in the “Influential Figure” category. Minister Hussain expressed appreciation for the UAE’s leadership in promoting sustainable agriculture and highlighted the robust bilateral ties between Pakistan and the UAE in agricultural research.

Minister Hussain stated, “The Khalifa International Award is a beacon of excellence in agricultural advancement, and Pakistan takes great pride in Dr. Markhand’s recognition.” He emphasized that this achievement underscores Pakistan’s commitment to scientific research and aligns with international efforts to tackle food security challenges and climate change.

A significant moment at the ceremony was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Second Pakistan International Date Palm Festival 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan. This agreement aims to enhance agricultural cooperation between the two nations. The MoU was signed by Minister Hussain and Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid, General Secretary of the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation.

The event also saw the recognition of various national and international figures, including Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, and H.E. Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Alzaabi, the UAE’s Ambassador to Pakistan, for their contributions to the date palm sector.

Minister Hussain’s attendance reinforced Pakistan’s dedication to agricultural innovation and its partnership with the UAE in addressing critical issues such as food security and sustainable farming practices.