University of Nizwa Welcomes Delegation from Beijing Tong Ren Tang Chinese Medicine Group to Strengthen Traditional Medicine Research Collaboration

The University of Nizwa recently hosted a delegation from Beijing Tong Ren Tang Chinese Medicine Group to explore cooperation in the field of traditional medicine and medicinal plants. The visit brought together academic and industry experts from China with counterparts at the University, highlighting a shared interest in research involving natural products.

Professor Zhao Zhongzhen, a senior consultant to the Hong Kong Department of Health and a long-time scholar of Chinese medicine, led the delegation. He was accompanied by specialists from Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, and the Institute of Compendium of Materia Medica, along with senior representatives from Beijing Tongrentang Gulf Company.

They were received by Professor Ahmed Al-Harrasi, Vice Chancellor for Graduate Studies, Research, and External Relations; Mohammed Al-Harrasi from the Consultation Centre; and Ahmed Al-Rawahi, Research Communication Officer. The meeting began with a short film introducing Chinese medicine, followed by remarks from Professor Zhao, who expressed his interest in Omani herbal practices. He also mentioned this visit as his second to Oman, underscoring his continued interest in collaboration.

Professor Al-Harrasi spoke about the growing role of research in national development and the University’s early and sustained focus on medicinal plant studies. The two sides exchanged publications and outlined areas of mutual interest. The University’s Natural and Medical Sciences Research Centre gave an overview of its work and research capabilities.

To close the visit, the delegation toured the University’s laboratories, introducing them to current and past research projects. Discussions during the visit pointed to several avenues for collaboration in scientific research, training, and knowledge exchange.

This meeting reflects the University’s approach to building focused, meaningful partnerships rooted in shared research goals and regional relevance.