Syed Tauqir Hussain Shah, Hon’ble Advisor to the Prime Minister (APM), has held a bilateral meeting with Qu Dongyu, DG FAO earlier today. Hon’ble APM is currently on a three-day official visit to Rome leading Pakistan’s participation at “World Food Forum” organised by FAO.

The discussions focused ongoing cooperation and opportunities to expand joint initiatives in sustainable agriculture, food security and rural development. Agricultural resilience, uplifting rural communities & advance climate-smart agricultural practices were also discussed.

Mr. Shah appreciated FAO’s longstanding relationship with Pakistan while DG FAO underscored Pakistan’s constructive role and immense contributions to FAO as it’s Founding Member. Pakistan is currently serving on FAO Council (2024-2026), the apex organ of the organization.

Noting that FAO forthcoming reforms process is aimed at strengthening its effectiveness globally, Hon’ble Advisor expressed gratitude to Asia Pacific Group (APG) for its confidence in Pakistan’s expertise and experience via unanimously nominating Pakistan for serving on the Council for next 3 years (2026-2028).

DG Dongyu fondly recalled his bilateral visit to Pakistan in past term and participation in International Conference on Climate Resilient Pakistan in Geneva in January 2023. He also acknowledged Pakistan’s proactive engagement and commended contributions toward global food security and sustainable agricultural development.  

The Hon’ble APM extended a most cordial invitation to DG FAO to visit Islamabad which was warmly accepted.

Pakistan Embassy Rome,

October 13, 2025