FAISALABAD: A delegation of Russian research and development (R&D) company, a manufacturer of pesticides and agrochemicals Schelkovo Agrohim, visited the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) on Sunday to explore opportunities for collaboration in high quality seed, crop protection, micro fertilizer and pesticide meant for addressing the agricultural challenges.
The delegation, comprising Trade Representative of the Russian Federation Denis Nevzorov and company Export Director Sergei Kalishin, held a meeting with UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali and senior university officials and faculty members. Discussions focused on areas of mutual interest, particularly plant protection, seed, crop productivity, and the technologies for sustainable agriculture.
Sergei Kalishin said that Schelkovo Agrohim JSC is a research and development (R&D) company, a manufacturer of pesticides and agrochemicals, and a leader in the Russian market for crop protection products and seeds. He said that activities are aimed at developing and expanding the scientific and production potential of agrochemical and agricultural sectors through top-tier developments in farming, and the implementation of innovative technologies.
The Russian representative presented details regarding specialized crop protection products and micro-fertilizers, pointing out that data are accessible via their official web platform. He noted that foreign agricultural conditions often require tailored solutions, adding that the UAF could examine the available documentation to select suitable products for trial runs in Pakistan. According to the delegate, identifying specific regional diseases and crop requirements will allow both sides to determine the most effective products before initiating larger commercial or scientific partnerships.
Responding to the proposal, UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali detailed a structured evaluation process. He nominated Director External Linkages DrIqrar Rana to coordination, alongside a joint evaluation comprising experts from the Plant Protection, Soil Science, and Seed Science. The committee will review the Russian catalog, assess local field requirements, and prepare a preliminary list of targeted products for localized trial testing. And a Letter of Intent will be inked in this regard.
Highlighting Pakistan’s diverse agro-climatic zones, Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali also proposed reciprocal arrangements, particularly regarding seed trial. Both sides expressed confidence that joint field trials and shared academic research would establish a durable framework for future agricultural cooperation between Pakistan and Russia.
The Russian representatives appreciated UAF’s academic and research capabilities and expressed their willingness to strengthen cooperation with the university through joint research, technology transfer, academic linkages and field-oriented agricultural initiatives.
The UAF Vice Chancellor welcomed the interest of the Russian company in collaboration and observed that stronger linkages between academia and the international agricultural industry could contribute to developing innovative solutions for crop protection, productivity and sustainability.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
Comments