Islamabad: (RightNow) Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announces sending 100 young agricultural graduates to Italy. He states these graduates will receive advanced training in olive cultivation and processing. The initiative aims to equip youth with skills in modern marketing and value chain sectors.

Speaking at the Pakistan National Olive Value Chain Policy event, the Prime Minister praised olive farmers, researchers, and exporters. He mentioned the commendable cooperation of provincial governments in olive cultivation, with 60 thousand acres under cultivation.

Shehbaz Sharif noted that Pakistan and Italy are collaborating in agriculture and tractor manufacturing. He added that further cooperation in olive production and value addition will be enhanced.

This initiative is crucial as Pakistan imports edible oil worth $4 billion annually. Olive cultivation could reduce edible oil imports, benefiting the national economy.

It is noteworthy that provincial governments are actively promoting olive cultivation in Pakistan. The federal government has also directed the promotion of palm oil and sunflower cultivation.