A strategy to establish a formal basis for cooperation on scientific and technological research throughout the Arab world was endorsed by research and education ministers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, earlier this month (11-13 March).

 

The Arab Strategy for Science and Technology is intended to turn research and development (R&D) investment and activities into tangible projects of development value.

 

It is designed to help identify and develop mutually beneficial R&D in areas of common interest in the region, as well as to streamline R&D funding to avoid duplicated efforts.

 

The areas of proposed cooperation are: biomedicine and health; agriculture, food security and fisheries; secure and renewable energy; natural resource management and environmental protection; materials sciences; meteorology; information and communications technologies; biotechnology; and marine sciences and technology.

 

The strategy also plans boosting scientists' public outreach, including work with government officials and policymakers, media, businesses and citizens; and investment in training and higher education to help build a critical mass of science and technology experts.

 

The strategy has several other goals. These include promoting open access to research and technology, showcasing Arab achievements regionally and internationally, and improving Arab states' participation in European Union and other international science and technology research initiatives, partnerships and networks.

 

In addition, the strategy's goals include applying research results by policy and industry sectors to foster social and economic development, and supporting science and technology policy, management and training to promote a knowledge-based society.