Process for synthesis of picolinamides

A process for the preparation of the compound of Formula C1:

• wherein X is CI, Br, HSO4, H2PO4 or CH3SO3;
• comprising:
• a) creating a first mixture containing the compound of Formula G2 as predominantly a single enantiomer
• o-tolylmagnesium halide, and a copper catalyst;
• b) isolating the compound of Formula D2
• from the first mixture;
• c) creating a second mixture containing the compound of Formula D2,
• N-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-L-alanine, an acylating agent, a catalyst and optionally a base;
• d) isolating the compound of Formula F
• from the second mixture;
• e) creating a third mixture containing the compound of Formula F and a strong acid;
• wherein the strong acid is HCl, HBr, HI, H2SO4, H3PO4, CF3COOH, or CH3SO3H;
• and
• f) isolating the compound of Formula C1, wherein X is CI, Br, HSO4, H2PO4 or CH3SO3, from the third mixture.

A process for the preparation of a compound of Formula B

• wherein Z is CH3CH2CO;
• comprising the steps of:
• a) reacting a compound of Formula B, wherein Z is H with an acylating reagent, and a base;
• and
• b) isolating the compound of Formula B, wherein Z is CH3CH2CO, from the mixture.