Saadullah Saeed
Islamabad: The Center for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organized a public lecture titled “Pakistan’s Opportunity for Science Diplomacy in South Asia” on March 1, 2024. Dr. Saleem H. Ali, Chairman The keynote speaker was , Department of Geography, University of Delaware, USA. The lecture provided significant insight into the opportunities Pakistan has to conduct successful and effective science diplomacy, including in the South Asian region. Speaking as the discussant, Additional Secretary (PP/ACDIS) Mr. Kamran Akhtar highlighted the progress made by Pakistan in relation to the Ministry of External Affairs; Science Diplomacy Initiative.
Director of CSP, Dr. Neelum Nigar, welcomed the participants of the discussion and emphasized the importance of this topic for the region.
In his welcome remarks, DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood highlighted the importance of Science Diplomacy (SD) in today’s interconnected world and commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ SD initiative for serving as a key platform to facilitate the interface between national S&T stakeholders and international partners. He noted that this helps foster beneficial cooperation in key areas of focus with relevant institutions, international organizations and countries. Pakistan has also used science diplomacy to implement the SDGs.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood added that science diplomacy in South Asia offers a chance to address common environmental challenges and help improve technological innovation and economic growth. Joint research and development projects can lead to the creation of new technologies, infrastructure improvements and increased scientific capacity in the region.
Dr. Saleem H. Ali delivered a compelling presentation outlining the key role of science diplomacy and highlighting how collaborative science efforts can transcend national boundaries to promote peace and sustainable development. He highlighted Pakistan’s unique position due to its rich scientific heritage and strategic geographical location, which suggests that the country can play a leading role in using science for diplomatic efforts globally, not just in South Asia.
Dr. Ali emphasized the need for international scientific cooperation and highlighted the importance of addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, pandemic preparedness and the Sustainable Development Goals. He advocated a dynamic and adaptable diplomatic approach, proposing the creation of international agreements on research integrity, merit-based criteria for international students, mechanisms for prevention science, a cooperative fund for crisis research, and effective science communication strategies against disinformation.
The vision of Dr. Ali’s views on Pakistan’s role in science diplomacy included a proactive stance in international forums, promotion of South-South cooperation and strategic use of science and technology as essential tools to achieve peace and prosperity. Its comprehensive framework has positioned Pakistan as an important player influencing the global scientific landscape and contributing significantly to international collaboration and progress.
The discussion deepened with valuable insights shared by Additional Secretary Kamran Akhtar and Mr. Muhammad Adeel representing the Embassy of Pakistan in Brussels. Mr. Akhtar provided a detailed overview of Pakistan’s active involvement in various international science initiatives, notably the EU Science for Diplomacy (S4D) initiative, contacts with the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) and the establishment of strategic university linkages aimed at promoting cooperation between developing countries (South Cooperation -south).
He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to showcase the myriad dimensions of its science programs and underscored the country’s determination to use science for peaceful and developmental purposes. Mr. Akhtar’s observations shed light on the Ministry of External Affairs’ ongoing efforts to seamlessly integrate science and technology into Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives. Notable achievements include the signing of multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) within international educational institutions, the expansion of science scholarships, and the establishment of science diplomacy focal points in Pakistani missions abroad.
The event concluded with remarks by BOG ISSI Chairman Ambassador Khalid Mahmood. He stressed the need to strengthen the role of science in diplomacy and highlighted its potential to contribute to a different international image of Pakistan. Ambassador Khalid Mahmood emphasized the importance of harnessing the expertise of the highly talented and active Pakistani diaspora and drew attention to their historically pivotal role in the country’s development.
The public lecture was attended by senior representatives of COMSTECH and COMSATS, academics, practitioners and students.
