Ambassador Marilina Armellin appreciates pace and output of Olive Culture Project in Pakistan

Celina Ali

Islamabad: Ambassador of Italy Marilina Armellin has expressed her appreciation at the pace and output of Olive Culture Project with the close cooperation of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research.

She expressed these views at the recent Steering Committee meeting for the “Olive Culture – Holistic and Multi Professional Mechanism for a Pakistani Olive Oil Value Chain” Project.

Ambassador Marilina Armellin reiterated her country’s desire to work with Pakistan in all sectors and cement the cooperation.

In recent years, Pakistan has witnessed a remarkable transformation in its agricultural landscape, particularly with the promotion of olive production. Close friend, Italy, has come out to help Pakistan in this regard.

The promotion of olive production in Pakistan with the help of Italy has had a profound effect on the economy. Traditionally reliant on crops like wheat, rice, and cotton, Pakistan’s agricultural sector has faced challenges such as low yields, water scarcity, and fluctuating market prices.

However, the introduction of olive cultivation has provided a lucrative alternative for farmers. With its high value in domestic and international markets, olive production offers a sustainable source of income for rural communities.

The increase in olive cultivation has also led to the establishment of processing facilities for olive oil extraction, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth in rural areas.

Moreover, the promotion of olive production has brought about significant environmental benefits. Olive trees are well-suited to Pakistan’s arid and semi-arid regions, requiring minimal water and tolerant to drought conditions.

By promoting the cultivation of drought-resistant crops like olives, Pakistan can mitigate the impact of water scarcity and soil erosion, thereby contributing to sustainable land management practices.

Olive groves serve as carbon sinks, absorbing greenhouse gases and mitigating the effects of climate change. The expansion of olive cultivation aligns with Pakistan’s commitments to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

Beyond economic and environmental considerations, the promotion of olive production has fostered social cohesion and empowerment within rural communities.

In many cases, olive cultivation has provided opportunities for marginalized groups, including women and smallholder farmers, to participate in agricultural activities and generate income.

By involving local communities in the entire value chain of olive production—from planting and harvesting to processing and marketing—this initiative has empowered individuals and strengthened social bonds.

The success stories of olive growers have inspired others to adopt innovative agricultural practices and pursue alternative livelihoods, driving rural development and poverty alleviation.

The promotion of olive production in Pakistan and Italy’s support has emerged as a catalyst for positive change, with far-reaching implications for the economy, environment, and society.

By diversifying the agricultural sector, enhancing environmental sustainability, and empowering rural communities, olive cultivation has demonstrated its potential to contribute to inclusive growth and resilience in Pakistan.