China's largest army hospital signed an agreement on Saturday with U.S. drug maker Wyeth to set up a research center for clinical drugs.

According to the agreement, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army of China and Wyeth conduct trials on drugs that will be used to treat dementia, schizophrenia, asthma and several kinds of cancer.

"The agreement will enhance the research efficiency of clinical drugs, cut costs, and allow patients to have more timely treatment of new drugs," said Qin Yinhe, president of the army hospital.

"We will also explore new ways to produce and research new drugs," said Qin.

Dr. Robert Maguire, chief of operations for clinical development at Wyeth Research, said the agreement is an important part of Wyeth's research and he hopes more Chinese patients will benefit.

(Xinhua News Agency June 18, 2007)