United States Chargé d’Affaires to Pakistan visited Zarai Taraqiati Bank

WNAM REPORT: The United States Chargé d’Affaires to Pakistan, Ms. Natalie A. Baker, visited the Head Office of Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) in Islamabad. She was warmly welcomed by the President/CEO ZTBL Mr. Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti.
Mr. Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti briefed her on the Bank’s vision, operations, and strategic initiatives aimed at promoting agricultural and rural development across Pakistan. During the meeting, the President/CEO highlighted the role of ZTBL as the country’s leading specialized financial institution serving the agriculture sector since last seven decades. With a vast network of 501 branches, of which over 90% are located in rural, underserved, and unbanked areas, ZTBL continues to advance financial inclusion and literacy among the farming community, he added.
The President/CEO showcased a video documentary highlighting ZTBL’s key initiatives and achievements, including innovative outreach programs such as ZTBL Zarai Baithaks and Mobile Van Services, which bring banking and advisory services directly to farmers in remote areas. He also apprised the distinguished guest of ZTBL’s collaboration with academia and research institutions to enhance agricultural productivity and promote the use of modern agricultural technologies.
ZTBL’s ongoing digital transformation was also discussed, including the launch of internet, WhatsApp, and mobile banking services to facilitate farmers in loan payments, settlements, and information access. The President/CEO further highlighted the efforts of ZTBL to onboard agri., service providers for improving smallholder farmers’ access to quality inputs and services.
Ms. Natalie A. Baker appreciated ZTBL’s contributions toward supporting small farmers and strengthening Pakistan’s agriculture-based economy. She further noted that several American businesses are actively investing and operating in agriculture and food sectors of Pakistan. Both sides exchanged views on the pressing challenges of food security and stresses on the agriculture sector.
The Chargé d’Affaires reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting efforts of Pakistan in building a more resilient agriculture sector, while Mr. Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti expressed ZTBL’s readiness to collaborate on initiatives that enhance productivity, promote financial inclusion, and ensure long-term food security.
The meeting concluded with a mutual resolve to explore future avenues of cooperation for the betterment of Pakistan’s farming communities, creating investment opportunities for U.S. business, and the overall growth of the agriculture economy.