News: CSF to help strengthen ICCBS Industrial Analytical Centre
Name of the Newspaper: Business day
Date of publication: Wednesday, 16 July, 2008
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KARACHI -The International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) and the Competitiveness Support Fund (CSF), a joint initiative of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Ministry of Finance, Government of Pakistan, discussed today the possibilities of working together to strengthen the ICCBS' Industrial Analytical Center.

They also agreed to work on initiating new technology incubators for the production of 'virus free' bananas and orchids.

Welcomfng possible joint initiatives, Dr. Iqbal Chaudhary, the ICCBS' Director H.EJ. Research Institute of Chemistry, said it was an excellent opportunity to work for the enhancement of analytical work, research as well as technology incubators.'

Chief Executive Officer CSF, Mr. Arthur Bayhan said working with ICCBS provided the grounds for exploring and developing a technology incubator for the production of nutraceuticals in Pakistan.

The Analytical Center at the H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry provides analytical and consultancy services to over 350 industries in Pakistan.

A number of goal-oriented proj ects relating to the chemistry of natural products, protein chemistry, plant biotechnology and pharmacology of herbal medicines are being vigorously pursued at the center and has led to the awarding of over 300 doctorate degrees, 50 M. Phil. degrees and 200 M. Sc. degrees and the publication of over 2,500 research papers that have earned international recognition.

The CSF has been established to reposition economy on a more global footing. The Fund is based on international best practices and has been tailored to the current Pakistani economic environment.

CSF supports Pakistan's goal of a more competitive economy by providing input into policy decisions, working to improve regulatory and administrative frameworks and enhancing public-private partnerships within the country.