Minister of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan Akmaral Alnazarova held a number of meetings with representatives of foreign companies producing medical products.

As the head of the department noted, one of the priority tasks of the national health care is uninterrupted provision of our country with effective, safe and high-quality drugs.

"The head of state has set a task to bring the share of domestic medicines production to 50 per cent by 2029, including by attracting large pharmaceutical companies within the framework of contract manufacturing. Negotiations have been held with Pfizer, Roche, AstraZeneca on the possibility of localising production in Kazakhstan," said Minister Akmaral Alnazarova.

Representatives of Johnson & Johnson reported on their intentions to localise innovative pharmaceutical products in Kazakhstan.

"We support the ministry's drug policy. We are confident that this decision will give a positive impetus to the economy and give a positive result to the people of Kazakhstan", - emphasised Asghar Rangunwalla, Managing Director for Emerging Markets of Johnson & Johnson.

The minister also held a meeting with representatives of Weigao, a Chinese company engaged in the production of more than 1,000 items of medical equipment and medicines.

Discussed issues of cooperation on issues of drug supply, including the construction in Kazakhstan to produce pharmaceutical products with export potential.

During the meeting, the parties mutually agreed to strengthen and further develop mutual co-operation, outlined specific areas and spheres of cooperation, as well as the exchange of scientific experience.