U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Ms. Natalie A. Baker Visits Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) Head Office, Islamabad

Islamabad,The United States Chargé d’Affaires to Pakistan, Ms. Natalie A. Baker, paid an official visit to the Head Office of Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) in Islamabad, where she was warmly received by the Bank’s President and CEO, Mr. Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti.

During the meeting, Mr. Bhatti briefed the Chargé d’Affaires on ZTBL’s vision, operations, and strategic initiatives focused on advancing agricultural and rural development across Pakistan. He emphasized ZTBL’s pivotal role as the nation’s premier specialized financial institution serving the agriculture sector for nearly seven decades. With an extensive network of 501 branches, over 90 percent of which are situated in rural and underserved regions, ZTBL continues to play a leading role in promoting financial inclusion and literacy among the farming community.

A documentary highlighting ZTBL’s flagship programs and achievements was presented, featuring innovative outreach initiatives such as Zarai Baithaks and Mobile Van Services, which bring banking and advisory services directly to farmers in remote areas. Mr. Bhatti also highlighted the Bank’s collaborations with academia and research institutions aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and encouraging the adoption of modern technologies.

Discussions further covered ZTBL’s digital transformation journey, including the introduction of internet, WhatsApp, and mobile banking services to facilitate farmers in loan payments and information access. The President/CEO also spoke about efforts to integrate agri-service providers to enhance smallholder farmers’ access to quality inputs and technical assistance.

Ms. Natalie A. Baker commended ZTBL’s contributions toward supporting small-scale farmers and strengthening Pakistan’s agriculture-based economy. She noted that several U.S. companies are actively investing and operating in Pakistan’s agriculture and food sectors, underscoring the shared commitment to food security and sustainable growth.

Both sides exchanged views on challenges facing the agriculture sector, including climate pressures and food supply resilience. Ms. Baker reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Pakistan’s efforts in building a more resilient and inclusive agricultural system. In response, Mr. Bhatti expressed ZTBL’s readiness to collaborate on joint initiatives that promote productivity, innovation, and long-term food security.

The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding to explore future avenues of cooperation for the betterment of Pakistan’s farming communities, enhancement of U.S.–Pakistan agricultural collaboration, and the overall growth of the national agri-economy.