National gene bank proposed to benefit future generations

Islamabad: In a significant development aimed at strengthening national capacity in genetic research, the Ministry of National Health Services has initiated a roadmap for collaboration with China’s BGI Group, one of the world’s leading genomics research institutions.

Minister of State for Health Dr Mukhtar Bharath chaired a high-level meeting with Executive Director of the National Institutes of Health Dr Muhammad Salman to discuss the proposed areas of cooperation with BGI Group. The meeting was part of a series of ongoing engagements reflecting BGI’s strong interest in supporting Pakistan’s health sector.

Dr. Bharath highlighted BGI’s potential role in enhancing genetic testing, advancing research into rare diseases, and improving diagnostics in Pakistan. He also proposed the establishment of a national gene bank to benefit future generations. “Scientific cooperation between Pakistan and China marks the beginning of a new era for early disease diagnosis and prevention,” Dr. Bharath stated. He emphasized the need for a well-devised international cooperation strategy and directed NIH to take the lead.

As part of the initiative, NIH will form a technical team comprising two to three experts to define Pakistan’s technical priorities and strategic needs. The team will also be tasked with drafting detailed recommendations based on Pakistan’s genetic health objectives and requirements, identifying areas where BGI’s expertise can be effectively utilised. A Pakistani delegation will soon visit BGI’s facilities in China to review their work in thalassemia, reproductive health, cancer research, and rare diseases.

Dr. Bharath welcomed BGI’s invitation for the delegation to tour its cutting-edge facilities. Following the technical consultations and field visits, the Government of Pakistan plans to move forward with a memorandum of understanding with BGI Group. “This initiative will lay the foundation for a transformative shift in Pakistan’s biological research ecosystem,” Dr. Bharath said.