Islamabad: Federal Minister for Science and Technology Khalid Hussain Magsi chaired the 6th Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF) in Islamabad, where he called for enhanced scientific cooperation among ECO Member States. The meeting, attended by senior officials and delegates from the region, underscored the importance of science, technology, and innovation as drivers of sustainable development and economic growth.

According to Press Information Department, Magsi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting ECOSF as a platform for scientific excellence and innovation. He highlighted the region’s potential, including its young population and natural resources, while noting shared challenges like climate change and digital inequality that require regional collaboration. Magsi emphasized the need for investments in scientific research and innovation ecosystems to bolster economic competitiveness.

Hossein Simaei Sarraf, Iran’s Minister of Science, Research and Technology, stressed the need for strengthened scientific collaboration to achieve sustainable development. He expressed Iran’s commitment to addressing the Foundation’s financial challenges and enhancing cooperation with other Member States.

Magsi urged countries that have not ratified the ECOSF Charter to do so and emphasized timely financial contributions from Member States. He encouraged ECOSF to develop programmes that address regional priorities and enhance scientific collaboration.

In conclusion, Magsi expressed confidence in a revitalized ECOSF serving as a catalyst for regional scientific cooperation and economic development. He wished for the success of the meeting’s deliberations in strengthening the ECO Science Foundation’s impact across the region.