Scientists' pact to fight cancer

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Scientists in Northern Ireland and India are to work together to try to find new ways of fighting cancer.

A research group, to develop new ways of treating the disease, has been set up between Belfast's Queen's University and India's Ministry of Biotechnology.

News of the project was made public as Employment Minister Sir Reg Empey began a visit to India.

Professor Patrick Johnston from Queen's said the partnership would enable them to learn more about the disease.

"Cancer does not recognise national boundaries and affects people across the globe," said Professor Johnston.

"Through this collaboration we will be able to develop new treatments and improve the diagnosis of cancer to the betterment of everyone."

Specialists from Queen's are involved in the project

The collaboration involves specialists from the Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology at Queen's and the National Institute of Immunology in New Delhi.

The professor added: "India has great expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

"With the beginning of this new partnership, I am confident that we will take significant strides in combating one of the world's most prevalent diseases."

He was speaking at the start of a three-day conference on Cancer Biology attended by leading cancer researchers from around the world.

It was opened by Sir Reg Empey.

The minister will also be meeting key Indian businessmen who have invested in Northern Ireland.