Korean Ambassador Sungho Visits NARC and KOPIA Pakistan Center
KOPIA Pakistan Center Showcases Agricultural Innovation During Korean Ambassador’s Visit
Korean Ambassador San Sungho Appreciates Progress in Agricultural Research and Technology Transfer
Islamabad – 8 July 2026 (Adnan Hameed) : The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Pakistan, Han Sungho, visited the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad, and KOPIA Pakistan Center to review ongoing Pakistan–Korea cooperation in agriculture, technology transfer, capacity building, and farmer-focused development.
During the visit, the Ambassador was welcomed by the senior leadership of PARC and NARC. The Director General NARC briefed the Ambassador on the mandate, institutional functions, research facilities, and national role of NARC in strengthening Pakistan’s agricultural research, innovation, and development systems, says press note.
The Ambassador also visited NIGAB and key research facilities at NARC, where he was briefed on ongoing scientific and technical work, including biotechnology, crop improvement, and innovation-oriented agricultural research.
At KOPIA Pakistan Center, the Ambassador was apprised of the Korea Partnership for Innovation of Agriculture (KOPIA) program, its technology transfer initiatives, capacity-building activities, and efforts to disseminate improved agricultural technologies for the benefit of farmers.
The Ambassador also visited the KOPIA Farm located at the NARC premises, where the Government of the Republic of Korea has supported the establishment of protected seed potato production facilities under Pakistan–Korea agricultural cooperation. These facilities include 35 drip-irrigated screen house systems spanning 10 acres, a state-of-the-art 6-unit aeroponic greenhouse system, a 165 kW solar energy system, and an Agri-Processing Complex equipped with a workshop and cold storage facility.
These facilities are contributing to the development of a modern local seed potato production system in Pakistan by promoting clean seed production, technology transfer, capacity building, and reduced dependence on imported seed.
Han Sungho recognized the vital importance of agriculture in Pakistan’s economy, rural society, and national food security. He assured continued support from the Government of the Republic of Korea to the Government of Pakistan for strengthening cooperation in the agriculture sector.
The Ambassador appreciated the efforts of KOPIA Pakistan Center, PARC, NARC, and Pakistani technical counterparts in advancing practical agricultural cooperation between the two countries. He also inquired about provincial outreach, collaboration with provincial governments, and the impact of ongoing interventions on farmers’ wellbeing, productivity, and livelihoods.
As part of the visit, the Ambassador also planted Olea europaea at NARC, symbolizing the growing friendship, partnership, and long-term cooperation between the Republic of Korea and Pakistan in the field of agriculture.
KOPIA Pakistan Center remains committed to advancing agricultural innovation, technology transfer, and sustainable agricultural development through strong Pakistan–Korea cooperation.
