ISLAMABAD, 24 August, 2026 (Ghufran): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday participated in the launch ceremony of the “Pakistan National Olive Value Chain Policy” in Islamabad and addressed a gathering of olive growers, farmers, researchers, experts, federal ministers and foreign diplomats. Addressing the ceremony, the prime minister said he was pleased to speak to Pakistan’s distinguished olive farmers, researchers and exporters, adding that their tireless efforts had set a remarkable example in the olive sector. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif particularly appreciated the contributions of Abdul Habbir from Loralai, Quratul Ain from Mardan and Yaqub Azhar from Chakwal. He also expressed gratitude to provincial governments for their cooperation in promoting olive cultivation. Paying tribute to farmers, the prime minister said they had demonstrated that determination, hard work and modern thinking could produce significant results.He assured farmers of all possible support for an agricultural revolution and said the federal and provincial governments would work together to provide maximum facilities to the farming community.
The prime minister noted that Pakistan imports edible oil worth around $4 billion annually. He said even reducing the import bill by $400 million would be a significant national achievement. He added that he had also directed authorities to promote palm oil and sunflower cultivation to reduce the country’s dependence on edible oil imports. Prime Minister Shehbaz highlighted the decades-old trade relations between Pakistan and Italy, saying cooperation between the two countries in agriculture, tractor manufacturing and other sectors was noteworthy.He said Pakistan and Italy would further strengthen cooperation in olive production, value addition, modern processing and exports.Announcing that 100 young agricultural graduates would be sent to Italy, the prime minister said they would receive modern training in olive cultivation, processing, marketing and value-chain development. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif distributed shields among olive growers, researchers and experts in recognition of their contributions to the sector. He also visited various stalls showcasing olive products and took keen interest in the products on display. The prime minister interacted with olive growers and entrepreneurs from across the country, who briefed him about their experiences and achievements in olive production.