KARACHI: A two-member delegation of Japanese experts from KPMG AZSA LLC, a Japanese member firm of KPMG International, visited the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi, on Monday to explore potential areas for development investment and research collaboration in Pakistan.
The visit was part of efforts to identify priority sectors requiring development assistance and investment. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Japan’s official development cooperation agency, is currently conducting a survey in Pakistan to assess potential areas for future development support.
ICCBS Director Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah welcomed the delegation, comprising Wakaba Uno and Masaaki Hamada, both Senior Associates in the Public Sector Advisory Division of KPMG AZSA LLC.
During the meeting, Prof. Raza Shah briefed the Japanese experts on the scientific achievements, research capabilities and ongoing projects of ICCBS. He highlighted the institution’s contributions to molecular medicine, drug discovery, chemical and biological sciences, and forensic research.
He said ICCBS was among Pakistan’s leading scientific research institutions and had established itself as an internationally recognised centre for advanced research and training, attracting scholars and researchers from several countries.
Discussing investment requirements, Prof. Raza Shah identified high-performance computing, advanced data storage infrastructure, pilot-scale research facilities and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facilities as key areas requiring financial and technical support.
He emphasised that investment in these facilities would significantly strengthen Pakistan’s research and development capabilities, promote scientific innovation and improve the country's capacity to translate laboratory research into practical applications.
Responding to questions from the Japanese delegation, Prof. Raza Shah identified healthcare and agriculture as two priority sectors where artificial intelligence (AI) research could play a transformative role.
He stressed the importance of developing AI-based research capabilities to address challenges in disease diagnosis, drug development, agricultural productivity and sustainable development.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Japanese experts to gain insights into Pakistan’s scientific infrastructure, research priorities and potential areas for international development cooperation.
