Pakistan, China collaborate on genetic research initiative

May 19, 2025 (MLN): In a significant development aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s national capacity in genetic research, the Ministry of National Health Services has launched a roadmap to collaborate with China’s prominent genomics research institution, BGI Group.

This move marks a strategic effort to enhance the country’s capabilities in genetic testing, rare disease research, and diagnostic advancements.

The initiative was highlighted during a high-level meeting chaired by Minister of State for Health, Dr. Mukhtar Bharath, alongside the Executive Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The discussions focused on potential cooperation areas with BGI Group, reflecting the institution’s keen interest in supporting Pakistan’s health sector, according to the press release.

Dr. Bharath emphasized the significance of this scientific partnership between Pakistan and China as the start of a new era in early disease diagnosis and prevention.

He also proposed the establishment of a national gene bank aimed at benefiting future generations.

Underlining the importance of a well-planned international collaboration strategy, Dr. Bharath directed the NIH to lead these efforts.

To define Pakistan’s technical priorities and strategic needs in genetic health, the NIH will assemble a technical team of two to three experts.

This team will draft comprehensive recommendations that identify how BGI’s expertise can be best leveraged in line with Pakistan’s genetic health objectives.

Additionally, a Pakistani delegation is set to visit BGI’s facilities in China to observe their work in areas such as thalassemia, reproductive health, cancer research, and rare diseases.

Dr. Bharath welcomed BGI’s invitation for this visit, viewing it as an opportunity to gain insights from their advanced research environment.

Following these technical consultations and field visits, the Government of Pakistan plans to formalize the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with BGI Group.

Dr. Bharath concluded by stating that this collaboration will lay the groundwork for a transformative evolution in Pakistan’s biological research landscape.

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