Pre – BLE 2019 Conference on "Livestock in Balochistan Prospects and Opportunities"

On 8th November 2019, the Government of Balochistan in collaboration with Food and Agriculture Organization (UNO) & University of Balochistan, Quetta, and Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad organized an International Conference on Livestock in Balochistan Prospects and Opportunities at Marriott Hotel, Crystal Ball Room, Islamabad.
The session commenced with opening remarks from Captain Fazeel Asghar (Retd) - Chief Secretary Balochistan, who mentioned that Balochistan is known as the Fruit basket of Pakistan he further highlighted the rich culture of Balochistan and its various cultural aspects, including their traditional dresses, unique cuisine and the diversity of people living in the region. He further commented on the importance of preserving Livestock and uplifting its industry in Balochistan. He emphasized that this conference is the first step towards the Livestock Expo which will be taking place in Balochistan.
His Excellency Jam Kamal khan - Chief Minister Balochistan, highlighted the importance of Livestock and stated that Balochistan is a land of immense potential for the progression in Livestock Industry of Pakistan. He further elaborated that innovations and advancements in the Livestock industry will prove to be a window of opportunity for farmers, mill owners and various industries connected to Livestock. He commented that Balochistan is one of the key contributors in the development of Livestock industry in Pakistan.
He concluded by saying that initiatives like the Balochistan Livestock Expo will prove to be a stairway of success for the industry and it's prosperity.
Mr.Mohammad Awais Khan, ITC Representative of Pakistan, mentioned the contributions of UN in the Livestock industry of Pakistan and its mission to attain the sustainable goals in collaboration with the Government of Balochistan. He explained the expected outcomes of their policies and how they will help to sustain and strengthen the Livestock industry and farmers. He concluded by mentioning the overall progress of their programs and its implications in the region.
Mr. Mumtaz Mohammad Khan Manais, Former Minister Livestock and Dairy Development, Punjab started his speech with an interesting poetic verse and spoke about the importance of preserving Livestock and how important it is to build up more opportunities for farmers. He stressed that livestock and farming is one of the main factors in eradicating poverty and generating income for the country. He concluded by talking about the different measures which could be taken for the improvement of Livestock industry in Balochistan.
His Excellency Mr. M Masud Zamani- Representative from the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan shared his thoughts related to shared ties of both countries and the joint initiatives taken in the Livestock industry of Pakistan
His Excellency Dr.Wang Zhihua- Minister Counselor (Economical and Commercial) discussed the joint cooperation between China and Pakistan for regional development and international market access to Pakistan and its products.
Ms. Roshan Khursheed Bharucha- Chairwoman PPAF, Former Minister and Senator, highlighted the importance of women in the development and progress of Pakistan, especially in the agricultural and Livestock industry. She explained the ratio of women working in the industry and elaborated the measures taken to improve the industry in Pakistan.
Mr. Brek Betlay - Deputy Head Commissioner from the Australian High Commission to Pakistan discussed the global ranking of the Livestock industry in Australia. He stated Australia's deep interest in taking quality measures to improve the Livestock industry in Pakistan.
The conference concluded with an end note from Mr. Ijaz Sanjrani - Special Assistant to Chief Minister, Government of Pakistan. He appreciated the efforts taken to promote the Livestock industry and highlighted the importance of the upcoming Livestock Expo in Balochistan. He mentioned the need of facilitating farmers in boosting the country's economy resulting in the prosperity of Pakistan. Other eminent participants who were a part of the conference included,
a) Haji Mittha Khan- Minister Livestock Balochistan
b) Ms. Zubaida Jalal- Federal Minister of Defense Production
c) Mr. Farrukh Toirov- Deputy FAO Representative
d) Mr. Mohammad Khan Achakzai- Former Governor
e) Mr. Jahanzaib Jamaldini- Senator
The conference marked the attendance of approximately 250 people including experts, diplomats and representatives of public and private sector.