AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Tianjin: The 25th meeting of the Coordinating Council of the Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) is currently taking place in Tianjin, hosted by the Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB) from September 10 to 12, 2024. The event has gathered international scientists and delegates from various COMSATS’ Centres of Excellence, focusing on enhancing scientific and technological cooperation among developing countries.
According to Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South, the meeting includes participants from TIB, which is a member of the COMSATS Network of Centres of Excellence and part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Also in attendance are members from other statutory bodies and partner organizations such as ANSO, ECOSF, ICESCO, INSME, PIDF, South Centre, SESRIC, and TWAS.
The inaugural ceremony on September 10 featured prominent speakers including Mr. DONG Keqin, Director of the Division of Multilateral Cooperation at the Ministry of Science and Technology, China. Mr. Dong emphasized the critical role of South-South Cooperation in fostering self-reliance and progress among developing nations. He also noted the alignment of these efforts with COMSATS’ objectives.
Prof. Dr. LIU Weidong, Director-General of the Bureau of International Cooperation at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Executive Director of ANSO, discussed the challenges faced by the Global South and the importance of international partnerships in addressing these issues. Prof. Liu also detailed the activities and collaborations of ANSO with COMSATS.
Prof. Dr. Ashraf Shaalan, Chairperson of the COMSATS Coordinating Council from Egypt’s National Research Centre, highlighted the scientific capabilities within COMSATS Member States and called for enhanced cooperation in fields such as low-emission transportation, climate change, and renewable energy.
Ambassador Dr. M. Nafees Zakaria, Executive Director of COMSATS, pointed out the disparities in wealth generated by technological advances between the Global North and South. He stressed the importance of universal access to technologies and knowledge to prevent exploitation. Ambassador Zakaria also praised the strategic partnerships and innovative projects initiated by COMSATS in recent years.
Prof. Dr. XIANG Hua, Deputy Director-General of TIB, spoke about TIB’s expertise in synthetic biology and biomanufacturing, noting several successful industrial applications of their green bioprocess technologies. He expressed optimism about the potential for increased collaboration within the COMSATS network.
The council meeting is addressing a 13-point agenda aimed at promoting collaborative research, capacity building, and the development of technological solutions to global challenges. A special panel discussion titled “Biomanufacturing Cooperation for a Better Tomorrow in the Global South” is scheduled for September 12, coinciding with the UN Day for South-South Cooperation.
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