ISLAMABAD, Dec 3rd, 2024: The first Steering Committee meeting for the “OliveCulture Scale-up – Scaling up OliveCulture Value Chain and Promoting Climate Resilient Rural Development in Pakistan” project was successfully held on Tuesday, December 3rd, at the Ministry of National Food Security & Research. Chaired by the Honorable Federal Secretary of the Ministry, Ali Tahir, and co-chaired by H.E. Ambassador of Italy in Pakistan, Marilina Armellin, the meeting marked a pivotal moment for strategic discussions aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s olive sector.
During the meeting, Ambassador Armellin praised the flagship project as a symbol of the robust cooperation between the Italian and Pakistani governments, noting it as a commitment to fostering a sustainable and greener Pakistan. She appreciated the involvement of CIHEAM BARI and AICS, recognizing the significant strides made in olive cultivation and economic growth within Pakistan through the project’s efforts. The Ambassador expressed contentment with the results of the first phase and looked forward to continuing these efforts in the second phase of OliveCulture.
On behalf of the Government of Pakistan and the MNFS&R, Federal Secretary Ali Tahir expressed gratitude for the support provided by the Italian Government, AICS, and CIHEAM Bari. He recounted his personal journey with the Olive Revolution since 2012, emphasizing the project’s close connection to his heart and its impact not just on rural livelihoods but also on the economic landscape of Pakistan. He assured that the forthcoming phase would maximize the benefits derived from these initiatives.
Mr. Francesco Zatta, Head of Office at the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) in Islamabad, lauded the partnership between the Pakistani and Italian governments and anticipated even greater results in olive production and oil quality in the upcoming phase.
Deputy Director of CIHEAM Bari, Biagio Di Terlizzi, acknowledged the geographical distance yet the close relationship with Pakistan, expressing pride in working closely with the Pakistani government through the Italian government’s support. He praised the collaboration with Pakistan’s agricultural institutions, which enhances Pakistan’s resilience to climate challenges.
Dr. Costantino Parma then presented the General and Annual Work Plans, including financial strategies, all of which were aimed at fostering further development in the sector. The meeting was also attended by representatives from the MNFS&R, AICS, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Provincial Agriculture Departments, the Oil Seed Department and the OliveCulture Scale-up Project Management Unit.
The session concluded with unanimous approval of the presented plans by the Honorable Federal Secretary and H.E. Italian Ambassador, setting a fortified course for the upcoming years.