Health Minister Encourages Global Partnerships at Boao Forum

Syed Mustafa Kamal, the Minister for Health, has called upon international stakeholders to consider partnerships within Pakistan’s rapidly growing healthcare sector. His remarks were made at the Boao Forum for Asia’s (BFA) Global Health Forum in Beijing.

Representing Pakistan, Kamal stated that the nation offers significant opportunities for cooperation, cutting-edge advancements, and financial investments. He extended an invitation to global partners, urging them to explore various investment possibilities, highlighting Pakistan’s dedication to ensuring substantial returns, simplified regulatory processes, and robust governmental backing.

The Boao Forum for Asia, established in 2001, operates as a non-governmental and non-profit international organization for conferences. Since its founding, it has been dedicated to fostering regional collaboration in Asia and promoting global development, with a specific focus on Asia and a broader global view.

In addition to conventional economic subjects, the forum has increasingly concentrated on health-related issues that are intricately linked to economic progress and the overall well-being of populations.

Kamal conveyed via his X account that Pakistan is prepared to engage in global health partnerships, emphasizing that the country’s assets include a population of 250 million, cooperative nursing practices, and digital advancements. He further asserted the critical link between health and economic advancement, stating, “Economy cannot progress without health.”

During his address, the Health Minister highlighted the recent introduction of a digital licensing and registration system for medical devices, noting that it is designed to complete the licensing process within a streamlined timeframe of 20 days.

Just days prior, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the digital licensing system, underscoring its importance as a major achievement in healthcare reform and enhanced transparency. Sharif acknowledged that overhauling the country’s healthcare system is a considerable challenge but emphasized that it is achievable through collaborative efforts. He stated, “It is difficult, but not impossible.”

The newly implemented digital platform, which was initiated by the previous coalition government, empowers medical device manufacturers to digitally complete licensing documentation and receive approvals within the 20-day window. This represents a considerable reduction from the previous lengthy delays, which Prime Minister Sharif suggested had fostered corruption and inefficiency.