Islamabad, March 14, 2024_In the presence of the Ambassador of Italy to Pakistan Her Excellency Marilina Armellin, the 4th Steering Committee of “OliveCulture” project has been held at the Ministry of National Food Security & Research. “OliveCulture” is a grant funded by the Italian Government and implemented by CIHEAM Bari in partnership with a wide range of local partners.
After the approval of a no-cost extension of the activities until June 30th, the meeting highlighted some important aspects of the implementation agenda and the Action Plan for olive cultivation in Pakistan. In particular, during the next extra-months a “National Olive Value Chain Policy up till 2030” will be finalized and shared with the Ministry, in order to support the private sector, better involve provinces and local authorities in the promotion of olive culture and to enhance regulations, governance related to quality control, imports and exports and certifications.
Reporting the achieved results during the past 8 months, CIHEAM Bari highlighted the success of training courses for farmers and technicians at the provincial level, the development of an olive tourism plan, a study on olive carbon sequestration, and income-generating activities for women in cosmetics.
Her Excellency the Ambassador Armellin stated: “It is truly hoped that the significant efforts undertaken by the Pakistani government to develop the olive oil sector shall contribute towards reducing the import of edible oils and improving the economic conditions of farmers and ensuring food security”.