Phnom Penh (FN), Jun. 4 – Cambodia is holding the 20th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), the 85th Meeting of the ASEAN Committee on STI, and related meetings from 3-7 June 2024, in Siem Reap province.

The 60th Meeting of the ASEAN Sub-Committee on Science and Technology Infrastructure and Resources Development (SCIRD-60) and the 16th Board of Advisory Council Meeting commenced on 3 June. Representatives from the ten ASEAN countries and the ASEAN Secretariat, Timor-Leste also gathered to discuss key issues and advances in the development of infrastructure, resources, and scientific, technological, and innovative initiatives for the region.

Keo Socheat, Director General of the National Institute of STI, underscored, “We are honored to host the 20th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on STI, the 85th ASEAN Committee on STI Meeting, and related meetings. These forums are vital for promoting regional cooperation in science and technology, and as the rotating chair, Cambodia is committed to enhancing ASEAN's scientific capacity and fostering innovation for sustainable development."

These meetings aim to strengthen regional cooperation and promote the implementation of the ASEAN Plan of Action on STI (APASTI) 2016-2025 and draft the action plan for 2026-2035.

The ASEAN Plan of Action on STI (APASTI) is a roadmap designed to strengthen cooperation in these fields within the ASEAN region. The plan outlines priority activities including enhancing research and development (R&D) capabilities, promoting technology transfer and innovation, improving science and technology education, and strengthening partnerships with the private sector. The ultimate goal of the ASEAN Plan of Action is to leverage science, technology, and innovation to drive economic growth and sustainable development for the region.

Cooperation projects with ASEAN dialogue partners, including Australia, Canada, China, India, Japan, Korea, the European Union, and the United States, were also discussed. Additionally, reports from affiliates and networks, including metrology experts, the ASEAN Young Scientists Network, and the ASEAN Network on the Green Economy, were presented at the meeting.
=FRESH NEWS