ISLAMABAD: The Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (Comsats) and the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) signed an MoU for complementing each other for science advocacy and regional development.

It was signed by Comsats Executive Director Ambassador Dr. M. Nafees Zakaria and ISSI Director General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood at the Comsats Secretariat on Friday.

Comsats is an intergovernmental organisation of 27 member developing countries, committed to advancing scientific research, innovations and technologies for sustainable development.

The ISSI is an autonomous premier think tank of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs dedicated to providing in-depth understanding and objective analysis of regional and global strategic issues impacting international peace and security.

The MoU will pave the way for collaboration for activities such as scientific research, studies and publications, professional exchange and capacity building, sharing of knowledge and experiences, science diplomacy and regional and international cooperation.

Sohail Mahmood deliberated on ISSI’s commitment to expanding partnerships and outreach to niche specialised institutions.

In his remarks, Ambassador Zakaria expressed unflinching commitment of Comsats to pass on the benefits of contemporary technologies to its member states, and noted that Comsats aspired to benefit from the strengths of ISSI with an aim to promoting intra-South reliance and cooperation.

Published in Dawn, October 26th, 2024