Lahore: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has welcomed initiatives by China’s BGI Group to invest in Punjab’s agricultural and health sectors. The collaboration includes a pilot project for rice and corn cultivation, as well as advancements in cancer treatment and genetic testing.
According to a statement by Chief Minister of Punjab, CM Sharif met with BGI Group Chairman Wang Jian to discuss progress on a memorandum of understanding previously signed during her visit to China. The Chinese delegation proposed a pilot project for cultivating rice and corn in the desert region of Bahawalpur and agreed to collaborate on genetically modified cotton to boost production by 15 percent.
Chief Minister Sharif has appointed the Provincial Agriculture Minister as the focal person for these initiatives. In response to BGI Group’s offer of collaboration in cancer treatment and genetic testing, she requested a detailed plan from the Secretary of Health.
CM Sharif stated that the partnership with BGI Group could significantly enhance the health sector in Punjab, with plans to establish an advanced genetic testing laboratory and a state-of-the-art hospital for cancer treatment. The Punjab government aims to implement these projects swiftly.
BGI Group Chairman Wang Jian praised CM Sharif’s efforts in the health sector and assured support in positioning Punjab as a leader in medical research globally.