Pakistan, Italy Sign €20 Million Concessional Loan Agreement to Boost Agricultural Training

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Italy have signed a concessional loan agreement worth €20 million (approximately Rs6.3 billion) to strengthen Pakistan’s technical and vocational education and training system in the agricultural sector.

According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the agreement was signed by Secretary for Economic Affairs Dr. Muhammad Humayun Karim and Italian Ambassador Marilina Armellin.

The 42-month program aims to enhance the capacity of farmers and agricultural extension workers through modern, market-oriented training programs. The initiative is designed to increase agricultural productivity, promote sustainable farming practices, and improve the socio-economic conditions of rural communities.

The ministry said the project will focus on the development of high-value crops and the strengthening of agricultural and food value chains. Specialized training centers will be established for individuals involved in horticultural production, processing, and marketing.

Priority crops under the program include olives, pistachios, dates, mushrooms, cherries, grapes, peaches, and almonds. Officials said the project will combine Italy’s advanced agricultural expertise with Pakistan’s vast agricultural potential.

During the implementation period, a total of 720 training courses will be conducted, benefiting approximately 18,398 participants. The project will also develop 11 standardized training curricula for the agriculture sector.

In addition, the initiative includes the establishment of 12 model orchards and nurseries, eight climate-resilient eco-friendly villages, five agro-food processing units, and two National Centers of Excellence. The centers will focus on kinnow and orange production in Sargodha and date cultivation in Turbat.

The Pakistan Oilseed Department, in collaboration with provincial agriculture departments, will implement the project.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs said the program is expected to create new employment opportunities in rural areas, increase farmers’ incomes, and reduce post-harvest losses through improved agricultural practices and processing facilities.