PH Envoy Explores Cooperation with Pakistan Pharma, Drug Regulatory Authority

Ambassador Espiritu (first from left) congratulates DRAP CEO Mr. Hamid Raza (second from left) and Director Ubaid ur Rehman (second from right) in DRAP’s bid for PIC/S accession and for its efforts to address Pakistani pharma issues. Ambassador Espiritu also acknowledges the PPMA, led by its Chairman, Mr. Haseeb Khan (first from right) for its efforts in enhancing its relations with the Philippine Embassy.

ISLAMABAD 25 April 2018 – Philippine Ambassador to Pakistan Daniel Ramos Espiritu met with the officials of the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Association (PPMA) and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) at the Serena Hotel, Islamabad on 20 April. In attendance were PPMA Chairman Mr. Haseeb Khan, DRAP Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sheikh Akhtar Hussain and 10 PPMA officials.

Recognizing the Philippines as one of Pakistan’s markets for its pharmaceutical products, DRAP CEO Mr. Akhtar informed the ambassador that the agency is already in the pre-accession stage of its Pharmaceutical Inspection Convention/Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme application which will make easier for Pakistani pharmaceutical companies to export their products currently exported to around 50 countries with a market of US$3.2 billion last year.

Mr. Akhtar also expressed interest to have an MoU between DRAP and the Philippines Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to enhance pharmaceutical trade between Pakistan and the Philippines.

PPMA Chairman Mr. Haseeb signified his interest in exploring the possibility of having joint ventures with Philippines pharmaceutical companies.

Ambassador Espiritu acknowledged the PPMA efforts in enhancing its relations with the Philippine Embassy. He also congratulated DRAP in its bid for PIC/S accession and for its efforts to address Pakistani pharma issues. He also welcomed DRAP’s interest in forging an MOU with the FDA and signified his support in this endeavor.

Ambassador Espiritu further encouraged PPMA officials to invest in the Philippines to reap the benefits that foreign manufacturers enjoy. END

For more information, visit www.islamabadpe.dfa.gov.ph or https://www.facebook.com/PEIslamabad.