Biocity project takes off

Author: 
By K.S. Ramkumar, Arab News Staff
Publication Date: 
Sun, 2002-04-07 03:00

JEDDAH, 7 April — The Jeddah Biocity (JBC) project took its roots when Makkah Governor Prince Abdul Majeed opened the three-day Saudi-Bio 2002 at Jeddah Hilton Hotel yesterday.

A large number of delegates from the world of medicine and technology are attending the event, organized by King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center (KFSHRC).

An exhibition devoted to the latest in biotechnology is also being held on the sidelines of the conference.

Prince Abdul Majeed said one of the main objectives of the conference was to benefit more from advances in this area.

“We have undertaken the development of biotechnology through its advanced scientific and medical research centers. This conference is a step in the direction of extending benefits of science to citizens,” the prince added.

The JBC concept is based on the initiative of building a comprehensive biotechnology complex of highly advanced specifications.

“This pioneering and unprecedented project in the city aims at making the Kingdom the focal point of biotechnology in the Middle East,” he added.

Dr. Sultan Bahabri, chief executive officer of KFSHRC and chairman of the conference, said: “We’re now entering the biotechnology age. We’re presently working on cures for diseases that were incurable previously and developing crops that will better feed and nourish all living beings. We’re even coming to a better understanding of the universe. The development of the biotechnology industry is full of opportunities that we cannot even imagine at this time. It’s our duty to work with our hearts and minds to create a vibrant industry that improves our lives and an even better future for the Kingdom.”

Dr. Essam Al-Sabban, conference co-chairman and executive director at the hospital’s research center, said with the establishment of KFSHRC two years ago the strategy of its research became dependent upon two major principles — “to begin where other people have ended in their research programs and to concentrate on the research that would have a positive reflection on the community.”

The conference will concentrate on the ethics of the research and application of biotechnology from the Islamic point of view, as well as education and training in biotechnology.

The conference, which will also explore sources of financing, is expected to lay the foundation for a flourishing biotechnology industry in the Kingdom.

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