The Beijing Genomics Institute (BGI) has announced 500 training scholarships for Pakistani experts in genomics and biotechnology, marking a new frontier in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that extends cooperation beyond infrastructure into health, food security, and advanced science.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Federal Minister Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, during his visit to BGI headquarters in Guangzhou, hailed the initiative as a milestone for Pakistan’s development, Gwadar Pro reported on Thursday. “CPEC 2.0, with its focus on genomics and biotechnology, will illuminate the future of health, food security, and innovation for our people,” he said.

“From building infrastructure to decoding life itself, Pakistan and China are entering a new chapter in scientific cooperation.” The minister emphasized that genomics will play a defining role in shaping the future of healthcare, food security, and overall prosperity in Pakistan, and expressed gratitude to Chinese partners for supporting Pakistani experts through training opportunities.

Iqbal is currently on an official visit to China to co-chair the 14th meeting of the Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) on CPEC. His trip includes a series of engagements in Guangzhou, Zhuzhou, and Changsha aimed at deepening cooperation in science, technology, and socioeconomic development.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China