ECOSF joined hands together with YPARD and other partners to co-organize the Webinar on COVID-19 and the Challenges of Global Economy
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ECOSF partnered with the Young Professionals in Agriculture Research and Development (YPARD) and other partners to co-organize the International Webinar on “COVID-19 and the Challenges of Global Economy” on June 13, 2020. The idea of holding this webinar was to discuss the economic challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic with particular reference to agriculture. A good number of participants, including agricultural scientists, researchers and economists as well as students participated in the webinar. On behalf of ECOSF, Engr. Khalil Raza and Mr. Bilal Mehmood participated in the webinar.
The webinar provided an opportunity for experts to discuss and propose a way forward in response to the economic fall out of the COVID-19 pandemic. On behalf of YPARD Pakistan Chapter, Ms. Shahla Salah opened the webinar and presented her welcome note. While Mr. Alpha Senon, Why Farm Agricultural Organization moderated the session.
Dr. Mohammad Azeem Khan, Chairman Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) delivered his keynote speech during the webinar. Dr. Azeem Khan underscored that Covid-19 pandemic is now a global crisis that affects the global economic structure, while its impact on trade remains a significant challenge. Dr. Azeem Khan further underscored that the countries that rely on food exports, will be hit harder due to disruption of global supply chain. However, Pakistan is in a relatively better position as the country is net exporter and is self-sufficient in many agricultural food crops; which ensures the food security. Although, he further cautioned that the impact of COVID-19 may still be relevant in local farming communities and urban centers in Pakistan due to disruption in logistics and transport especially during the lockdowns.
Later on, many renowned experts/speakers also spoke and presented their perspectives on the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the economy and suggested interventions for the sustainable economic recovery.