Ansar Mahmood Bhatti

ISLAMABAD, DEC 17 /DNA/ – France and Pakistan on Wednesday signed a landmark Work Plan on Phytosanitary Requirements for the Export of Seed Potatoes from France to Pakistan, marking a significant step forward in bilateral agricultural cooperation.

The signing ceremony was held at the French Residence in Islamabad and was hosted by the Ambassador of France to Pakistan, Mr. Nicolas Galey. Secretary Ministry of Food  and senior officials from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), the Chamber of Food and Agriculture, along with representatives of the media and other distinguished guests, attended the event.

In his address, Ambassador Galey described the agreement as an important milestone in strengthening France–Pakistan relations, particularly in the agricultural sector. He thanked the Pakistani authorities for their constructive engagement and cooperation throughout the process.

Highlighting the central role of agriculture in Pakistan’s economy and food security, the French ambassador emphasized the importance of access to high-quality, disease-free planting material to enhance crop yields, improve farmers’ incomes, and build resilience against climate and sanitary challenges.

Ambassador Galey noted that France is a leading global producer of certified seed potatoes, renowned for its strict phytosanitary controls and rigorous certification systems. He said French seed potatoes are exported worldwide under the highest international sanitary standards.

“The Work Plan signed today reflects the mutual trust between our phytosanitary authorities and our shared commitment to science-based, internationally aligned standards,” he said, adding that it provides a transparent and secure framework to facilitate exports while fully safeguarding plant health.

Beyond trade, the agreement is expected to open avenues for deeper technical cooperation, exchange of expertise, and long-term partnerships between French and Pakistani institutions and professionals.

Reaffirming France’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s goals of agricultural productivity, food security, and sustainable development, Ambassador Galey described agriculture as a particularly promising area for expanding bilateral ties, including trade, investment, training, and education.

He also extended an official invitation to Pakistani officials and companies to participate in the Paris International Agricultural Show, scheduled to be held from February 21 to March 1, 2026, calling it a major opportunity to explore French expertise and cooperation prospects. The French Embassy, in collaboration with the Pakistan France Business Alliance, will facilitate and support such visits.

Federal Secretary for National Food Security and Research, Mr. Amir Mohyuddin, addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of the agreement for Pakistan’s agricultural sector and food security.

In his remarks, the Federal Secretary said the agreement was the result of extensive technical consultations between the two sides and reflected the strong spirit of cooperation and mutual trust between Pakistan and France. He noted that the partnership would provide a structured and forward-looking framework for collaboration in the critical area of plant health.

Emphasizing the central role of agriculture in Pakistan’s economy, Mr. Amir Mohyuddin said access to high-quality, disease-free planting material is essential for improving crop productivity, enhancing farmers’ incomes, and promoting sustainable agricultural development.

Referring to Pakistan’s existing agricultural exports, Mr. Mohyuddin said the country was already exporting high-quality rice to the European Union and ranked among the most compliant producers in meeting EU standards. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining international quality and safety standards for agricultural and food products.

Officials from both sides expressed confidence that the agreement would deepen technical cooperation, strengthen trade links, and contribute to long-term agricultural sustainability and food security in Pakistan.=DNA

ISLAMABAD, Dec 16 (APP):Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday extended warm congratulations to the leadership and people of the Kingdom of Bahrain on the occasion of the country’s National Day, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties rooted in friendship and brotherhood.

In a congratulatory message, the interior minister expressed special good wishes for his “brother,” Bahrain’s Minister of Interior, General Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa.

He praised the Bahraini leadership for its visionary and farsighted approach, saying it has placed the country on a path of sustainable development while opening new horizons for improving the quality of life of its people.

Mohsin Naqvi said that dedication and determination across all sectors have made Bahrain a symbol of stability, progress and prosperity in the region. He noted that through sound planning in education, healthcare, infrastructure and social development, Bahrain is steadily moving toward a bright and secure future.

Highlighting bilateral relations, the interior minister said that the historic, friendly and strong ties between Pakistan and Bahrain have always been based on mutual trust, respect and brotherhood. He added that millions of Pakistanis are playing a significant role in Bahrain’s development and prosperity.

Referring to his recent visit to Bahrain, Mohsin Naqvi said that both interior ministries agreed to enhance mutual cooperation, reflecting the shared commitment of the two countries to deepen collaboration in key areas.

He concluded by offering prayers for Bahrain’s continued progress, the welfare of its people and the uninterrupted journey of national development, reiterating Pakistan’s resolve to further promote the strong bonds of friendship, cooperation and brotherhood with Bahrain.

ISLAMABAD, DEC 16 /DNA/ – Satrang Gallery will unveil a poignant new exhibition, ‘Where the Wild Breathes’, featuring the works of artists Ahsan Qureshi and Kamran Qureshi. The opening reception is scheduled for Tuesday, 16th December 2025, at 5:00 PM at the Serena Hotel, Islamabad.

The two-person show presents a series of paintings born from a profound connection to Pakistan’s wilderness. The artists merge meticulous scientific observation with deep emotional insight, creating works that are both a celebration of the living landscape and an urgent call for its conservation. Each piece reflects a devotion to the natural world, emphasizing that art and nature are inextricably linked—both requiring knowledge, reverence, and responsibility.

“Through their beautiful paintings, the artists convey an essential truth: where the wild breathes, so does hope,” stated a gallery representative. The exhibition aims to engage viewers not only aesthetically but also ecologically, reminding them of the fragile beauty that surrounds them.

The opening event from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM offers art enthusiasts, conservationists, and the public an opportunity to experience this powerful collection and meet the artists. ‘Where the Wild Breathes’ will continue at Satrang Gallery, Serena Hotel, following the inauguration.