ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday said the olive plantation would help address climate change and increase exports of the country.

“Largescale olive cultivation would prove a best investment for Pakistan in terms of earning valuable foreign exchange and ensuring food security,” PM Imran said while addressing the launching ceremony of olive plantation campaign in Nowshera district.

The prime minister said Pakistan spent a lot on import of edible oil that can be reduced with the production of olive oil locally by planting olive trees particularly on western bank of the Sindh River.

“Food security is a serious challenge for Pakistan as the country imports sugar, wheat, oil and ghee. The fast growing population adds to this challenge,” he said.

He said the production of olive oil can also generate new jobs and flourish businesses in the country.

PM Imran said the primary objective of the government’s ten billion tree tsunami project was to safeguard our generations from the effects of climate change.

He asked the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to use the Miyawaki method of plantation in Peshawar to tackle the growing issue of pollution in the city.

Imran Khan said the government was including fruit trees in ‘Ten Billion Tree Tsunami’ project, which would create new employment opportunities. He said areas will be divided in different zones scientifically to plant specific fruit trees.

Highlighting Pakistan’s vulnerability in climate change, the prime minister urged the youth to participate in plantation campaigns in their areas.