A major milestone in scientific cooperation was achieved as OIC-COMSTECH, China, and Pakistan jointly launched a research laboratory on herbal medicine in Ningbo.
New Platform for Traditional Medicine Research
The Joint Laboratory on Research and Development of Herbal Medicine was inaugurated during the 2026 International Symposium on Traditional Chinese Medicine and Unani Medicine Cooperation. Additionally, it aims to strengthen collaboration in traditional medicine innovation and scientific validation.
Broad Multidisciplinary Research Framework
The laboratory brings together 50 researchers, including experts from medicine, pharmacy, biology, chemistry, artificial intelligence, and regulatory sciences. Moreover, this multidisciplinary structure is designed to enhance both innovation and applied research in herbal medicine.
Leadership Structure Announced
Prof. Zhao Yufen of the Chinese Academy of Sciences will chair the academic committee. Meanwhile, Prof. Liu Xinmin will serve as the Chinese director, while Prof. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary will represent Pakistan as the Pakistani director.
Focus on Innovation and Product Development
The laboratory will prioritize preclinical and clinical research, international product registration, academic exchange, and capacity building. In addition, it will support the development of evidence-based traditional medicine systems.
Call for Expanded International Cooperation
Speaking at the inauguration, Prof. Choudhary highlighted the success of China–Pakistan collaboration in traditional medicine. Furthermore, he proposed expanding this model to other OIC member states through broader scientific cooperation and future summits.
Strengthening Global Scientific Partnerships
Professor Zhao Yufen emphasized the importance of international cooperation in advancing traditional medicine research. As a result, the new laboratory is expected to serve as a global platform for innovation, integration, and scientific exchange.
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