Australia Reaffirms Support for Pakistan in Tackling Climate Change and Agricultural Challenges

FAISALABAD: Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, H.E. Neil Hawkins, has reaffirmed Australia’s long-standing commitment to supporting Pakistan in strengthening its agricultural sector, ensuring food security, and addressing the growing threats of climate change.
During his visit to the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), the High Commissioner met with Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, deans, directors, and UAF alumni from Australian universities. He emphasized that Australia has been working with Pakistan in the agriculture sector for more than four decades and highlighted the importance of joint efforts to overcome the mounting climate challenges.
“Climate change is directly linked to agriculture and water. Together, through research and collaboration, we can find solutions to these pressing issues,” Hawkins said. He stressed that Australia, with its deep expertise in agriculture, livestock production, and water management, remains a key research partner for Pakistan. He particularly underlined the importance of revisiting groundwater policies in the wake of widespread solar pump usage, as water tables continue to decline.
The High Commissioner appreciated UAF’s contribution to education and research and encouraged greater knowledge sharing between the two countries. “We need to learn from each other’s experiences to build resilience against climate change,” he added.
Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ali noted that UAF has partnered with Australia in 29 collaborative projects focusing on mango, citrus, pulses, and value chain improvements, delivering tangible outcomes for Pakistan’s agriculture. He pointed out that Pakistan faces critical water-related challenges, including groundwater depletion, deteriorating water quality, floods, and droughts.
He stressed that Australia’s advanced technologies in water conservation and efficient management could play a transformative role in Pakistan’s climate resilience. “Gigantic climate change threats are posing serious risks to agriculture and food security. We must accelerate our efforts to safeguard resources for our growing population,” Dr. Zulfiqar said, while appreciating Australia’s continued support.