Minister for science and technology Chaudhry Nouraiz Shakoor Khan has called on the South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (Saarc) countries to share knowledge in the field of science and technology, a key driver of the socio-economic development.
Addressing second meeting of the Saarc technical committee on science and technology and meteorology here on Monday, the minister said science and technology offered tremendous opportunities for sustainable production, income enhancement, comprehensive food security and prosperity of Saarc-member countries.
He said the Saarc, as an institution, could play a vital role for future development in member countries. Only a meaningful interaction between Saarc countries in science and technology can bring the much-needed congruence among productivity, sustainability, profitability and equity.
The minister said the most pressing need of the Saarc region is the alleviation of hunger and poverty through enhanced and sustained production, equitable distribution and environmental protection.
Nouraiz said the development budget of science and technology in Pakistan has been increased manifold. During the last five years, 49 projects worth Rs 3.9 billion in science and technology sector have been approved.
"We have taken a major step forward in areas of human resource development during the last five to six years and science and technology cannot make major headway unless we have highly qualified scientists and engineers," the minister added.
He said science and technology can specifically address needs of a majority of small and resource-starve farmers of the region.
"Scientists and technologists have to play a vital role in the development of the Saarc region. Scientists should struggle for the maintenance and improvement of scientific and technological institutions for the progress of the needy people," he said.
He said investments in research and development have become increasingly decisive for the success of the nations. He urged to develop joint scientific technological projects, sign strategic agreements, which are fundamental for the creation of new products.