In a significant development, the Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand welcomed and discussed ways to enhance cooperation in science, technology, and innovation with Professor Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of the Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) under the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), highlighting the importance of fostering academic linkages between Thai universities and COMSTECH.
Thailand's enhanced ties with OIC-COMSTECH are a crucial step towards promoting regional cooperation and advancing sustainable growth. As an observer member of the OIC since 1998, Thailand has placed great emphasis on constructive engagement with the organization and its members in areas of shared interests. This meeting reflects the mutual commitment between Thailand and the OIC to strengthen partnership through development cooperation in science and technology.
Historical Background
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was established in 1969 with the aim of promoting solidarity among its member states and addressing regional and global challenges. COMSTECH, a subsidiary organization of the OIC, focuses on scientific and technological cooperation among its member countries. Thailand's involvement with COMSTECH dates back to 1998, when it became an observer member.
Key Stakeholders
Thailand and OIC-COMSTECH have identified several areas for cooperation, including:
Science and Technology: Enhancing research collaboration, capacity-building, and innovation in areas such as halal science.
Academic Linkages: Facilitating faculty and student exchanges between Thai universities and COMSTECH member countries.
Capacity Building: Providing training and technical assistance to strengthen institutions and promote sustainable development.
Recent Developments
In recent months, Thailand has taken several steps to strengthen its ties with OIC-COMSTECH. These include:
Establishing a high-level working group to discuss cooperation in science, technology, and innovation.
Hosting workshops and seminars on topics such as halal science and sustainable development.
Participating in COMSTECH meetings and conferences to promote regional cooperation.
Future Impact
The enhanced partnership between Thailand and OIC-COMSTECH is expected to have a positive impact on regional cooperation and sustainable growth. In the short term (next 6 months), we can expect:
Increased collaboration on science, technology, and innovation projects.
Enhanced academic linkages between Thai universities and COMSTECH member countries.
In the long term (5-10 years), we can anticipate:
Strengthened institutional capacity in COMSTECH member countries.
Increased regional cooperation and collaboration on sustainable development initiatives.