describe an efficient and scalable synthesis of 4-carbomethoxy-6,6′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine starting from easily available substituted 2-halopyridines and based on the application of modified Negishi cross-coupling conditions. This compound is a versatile starting material for the synthesis of 4-functionalized 2,2′-bipyridines bearing halide, alcohol, amine, and other functionalities, suitable for conjugation