M42 Signs MoU with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health on Uzbek Genome Programme
Abu Dhabi: M42 and Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate and explore opportunities for strategic partnerships on the Uzbek Genome Programme.
According to Emirates News Agency, the MoU was signed during a ceremony at Rotana Beach, Abu Dhabi, attended by Farhkodjon Tashpulatov, Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Health, Shokhrukh Gulamov, Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Investments, and Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi, Deputy Chief Operating Officer at M42. The event was also graced by Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and Laziz Kudratov, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade.
M42 and Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health are committed to enhancing their strategic partnership in genomics to support the healthcare ambitions of Uzbekistan. The collaboration aims to advance genomics, next-generation prevention, and diagnostic development in the Republic of Uzbekistan. Key projects include developing in-country genomic capabilities to enable the Uzbek Genome Programme, designing scalable screening and diagnostic tools, and supporting genetically inherited disease prevention programmes.
The partnership will also focus on research, development, and manufacturing of novel screening and diagnostics in Uzbekistan, along with knowledge transfer, training, and workforce upskilling. M42’s expertise from its partnerships with UAE healthcare authorities on the Emirati Genome Programme positions it to contribute significantly to Uzbekistan’s healthcare sector.
Farhkodjon Tashpulatov emphasized the unique opportunities genomic research presents in understanding the genetic characteristics of the Uzbek population. The initiative aims to improve population health and reduce chronic diseases. He highlighted the importance of training specialists and integrating advanced technologies to position Uzbekistan as a leader in genomics in Central Asia.
Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer at M42, noted the transformational impact of this partnership on Uzbekistan’s healthcare ecosystem and global genomics research. The programme seeks to address gaps in healthcare and improve patient outcomes by focusing on genetic diseases.
Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi expressed pride in partnering with Uzbekistan to shift healthcare from reaction to prevention. He emphasized M42’s capabilities in genomics and its role in delivering one of the world’s largest genomics programmes, contributing to global health equity.