President Zardari Orders Expansion of Pakistan-Uzbekistan Health Cooperation
Islamabad : On the directions of President Asif Ali Zardari, following his meeting with the ambassador of Uzbekistan, a meeting was convened at Aiwan-e-Sadr to deliberate on practical avenues of bilateral cooperation in healthcare, medical education, and the recognition of medical institutions and qualifications in both countries.
The meeting was chaired by Dr Asim Hussain, personal physician to the president.
The Uzbek side participated virtually and was represented by Babayev Alisher, first deputy minister of health, Alizhanov Abror, Prof Yusupalieva Gulnora, and Prof Gulyamov Surat.
Participants were informed that during the recent state visit to Pakistan by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, a total of 28 memoranda of understanding and cooperation agreements were exchanged between Pakistan and Uzbekistan across various sectors, including health, education, and pharmaceuticals, reaffirming the shared intent to strengthen bilateral collaboration.
Pakistan’s side included the secretary to the president, the chairman of the Higher Education Commission, the president of the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council, and representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination.
The meeting noted that more than 1,200 Pakistani students are currently studying in Uzbekistan in different disciplines, while Uzbekistan has registered over 180 types of Pakistani pharmaceutical products, reflecting growing people-to-people contacts and commercial linkages.
Dr Asim Hussain highlighted the potential for further expanding cooperation in medical education, scientific research, and the practical training of doctors.
Uzbek officials briefed participants on their healthcare sector, noting the presence of around 9,000 private clinics and that nearly half of all surgical procedures are carried out in private facilities. They also expressed interest in offering employment opportunities to Pakistani doctors and allied health professionals.
The meeting concluded with an understanding to continue consultations and examine modalities for moving forward in line with the president’s direction. It was agreed that a delegation of Pakistani health professionals would visit Uzbekistan in the near future to follow up on the discussions and decisions.
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