Thursday, December 23, 2010

The Hindu : Sci-Tech / Science : ISRO to launch Singapore satellite soon

The Hindu : Sci-Tech / Science : ISRO to launch Singapore satellite soon: "The Indian Space Research Organisation is set to place Singapore's first satellite in orbit within a month or so. Announcing this, India's High Commissioner to Singapore, T. C. A. Raghavan, said here on Tuesday that the experimental satellite was made by a university in the City-State itself.

Briefing journalists on ‘The India Show' to be held here next month, Dr. Raghavan said “there is already a science and technology platform” of cooperation between the universities and research institutes of the two countries. “One of the very good things in the India-Singapore bilateral relationship is that research institutions and universities have direct links with each other.” And, the governments of the two countries also inked, a Memorandum of Understanding a few years ago.

‘The India Show,' the first under this banner in Southeast Asia and only the third globally, would shine the spotlight on Singapore as a partner in the implementation of New Delhi's Look-East policy. Besides trade and other economic issues including investment flows, a highlight of the Show would be an Indian space pavilion."

Monday, November 15, 2010

High Tech Plastic Potential

High Tech Plastic Potential: "The mission will visit top Japanese multinationals and research institutions to raise awareness of UK excellence and identify potential partners with complementary core competences for accelerating product development in PE. For example, the researchers of Yamagata University together with local companies and the prefectural government have nurtured a healthy relationship; all with a shared vision to make Yamagata the “Organic EL Valley” in Japan. Other regions, such as Kyushu is synonymous for the development of Japan's activity in organic displays."

“Toward to the next decade of connecting the dots” � A next decade of "Connecting the dots"

“Toward to the next decade of connecting the dots” � A next decade of "Connecting the dots": "Today marks an historic milestone in public diplomacy and scientific collaboration, as I join with you in celebrating the tenth anniversary of swissnex Boston, the world’s first “science consulate.” President Obama spoke about the power of “science diplomacy” in his famous speech last year in Cairo. It was a kind of science diplomacy that is capable of building bridges between countries, continents and civilizations. When I heard that, I thought, somehow, all of this began here with swissnex Boston."

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Yemen’s Water Crisis Could Worsen Security | Green Prophet

Yemen’s Water Crisis Could Worsen Security | Green Prophet: "As a result, FAS is urging policymakers to incorporate science diplomacy as an integral ingredient to security. If ongoing security efforts fail to take into consideration basic environmental concerns – people need water to survive, and social inequalities – some get more water than others, they argue that no armory will be large enough to quell hostilities."

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Tunisia: Wole Soyinka for AfDB lecture

Tunisia: Wole Soyinka for AfDB lecture: "Tunis, Tunisia - Nigerian Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka has been invited to the next session of the 'Distinguished Speakers' forum of the African Development Bank (AfDB) on 25 Oct. in Tunis, the bank said in a statement obtained by PANA here Tuesday. The 76-year-old Soyinka, the first African to receive the Nobel Prize for literature (in 1986), will speak on 'The role of African intellectuals in the Development of Africa.'"

Office of Science & Technology - Around the World in 30 Days – a Four-Week Journey for Science Diplomacy

Office of Science & Technology - Around the World in 30 Days – a Four-Week Journey for Science Diplomacy: "in Amman, another AAAS team, this one from the Center for Science, Technology and Security Policy (CSTSP), convened in cooperation with the Jordanian University of Science and Technology's HRH Princess Haya Biotechnology Center a major biotechnology symposium with participants from 14 countries from the region plus Afghanistan and Pakistan. The attendees' reaction was very positive. For the first time, AAAS will be able to accept and fund on a competitive basis a small number of projects based on proposals from bioscientists in the region."

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

European Union Libya Negotiate Cooperation Agreement in Brussels

European Union Libya Negotiate Cooperation Agreement in Brussels: "European Union Libya Negotiate Cooperation Agreement in Brussels
02/10/2010 22:35:00
The European Union (EU) and Libya have resumed on Thursday talks in Brussels with a view to concluding a comprehensive cooperation agreement. Discussions between the two parties cover trade, transport and diplomacy, said a statement by the EU Commission services."

Monday, October 4, 2010

Touching base with the RISE networks � SciDev.Net’s Weblog

Touching base with the RISE networks � SciDev.Net’s Weblog: "Capacity building is a buzzword in African science policy circles, but we journalists have a hard time writing about it. A story may appear when a new initiative is launched; another if a promised result fails to materialise. But the slow bricklaying of most capacity-building programmes is difficult to fit into the cut-and-thrust of the news pages."

Saturday, September 4, 2010

US launches centre for science diplomacy - SciDev.Net

US launches centre for science diplomacy - SciDev.Net: "US launches centre for science diplomacy

Wagdy Sawahel

6 August 2008 | EN
handshake_flickr_oooh.oooh.jpg

The centre aims to use science and scientific cooperation to promote international understanding

Flickr/oooh.oooh

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has launched a science diplomacy centre, aiming to use science and scientific cooperation to promote international understanding.

The Center for Science Diplomacy, based in Washington DC, was officially announced last month (15 July) by AAAS chief executive Alan Leshner at a congressional session on fostering international science cooperation.

Vaughan Turekian, the AAAS chief international officer and director of the centre, says its major objective is to raise the profile of science as an important element of relationship-building between countries and societies."

Obama appointee could boost US–developing world relations - SciDev.Net

Obama appointee could boost US–developing world relations - SciDev.Net: "The key foreign policy post usually goes to a career diplomat or political appointee and Jones's nomination is seen as underlining President Obama's strategy of appointing officials with sound technical expertise."

Time for a new era of science diplomacy - SciDev.Net

Time for a new era of science diplomacy - SciDev.Net: "Time for a new era of science diplomacy

Publication date: February 2007

Source: Science

10 June 2010 | EN

In this Science article, US-based scientists Kristin M. Lord and Vaughan C. Turekian argue that science diplomacy is critical to US efforts to build positive relationships with foreign societies. They outline roles for US scientists to play — from acting as goodwill ambassadors to collaborating with colleagues overseas. And they highlight the importance of nongovernmental scientific organisations as conduits to foreign societies."

Clinton puts science at heart of US development strategy - SciDev.Net

Clinton puts science at heart of US development strategy - SciDev.Net: "'What this is telling us is the prominent role that science and technology is now playing in the administration and the entire development community in the US government,' Turekian told SciDev.Net. 'It is a recognition that science and technology are inherently linked to almost every aspect of development.'"

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Consulate General of the United States - U.S. Congressmen meet with the Arab Science and Technology Foundation

Consulate General of the United States - U.S. Congressmen meet with the Arab Science and Technology Foundation: "During the meeting, participants discussed ways for U.S. businesses and organizations to partner with ASTF. Congressman Baird spoke of the importance of science diplomacy, which cuts against politics and borders, and praised the ASTF's important advocacy role in the Middle East."

Thursday, August 26, 2010

U.S. Group Plans a Digital Library to Aid North African Research

U.S. Group Plans a Digital Library to Aid North African Research: "'The U.S. government has a renewed interest in science cooperation generally in order to solve a number of problems: environmental, economic, security,' says Eric Novotny, the foundation's senior vice president. 'And there's a push toward engaging the Muslim world.'

In a speech last year at Cairo University, President Obama said science and technology partnerships were one of the ways the United States could strengthen ties with Islamic nations."

Monday, August 23, 2010

Science diplomacy must be more ambitious - SciDev.Net

Science diplomacy must be more ambitious - SciDev.Net: "Science diplomacy must be more ambitious

Naiyyum Choudhury

23 June 2010 | EN | 中文
dhakaWoman_flickr_Michael_Foley_Photography.jpg

Poor countries merit equal support whatever their religion, culture and natural resources

Flickr/ Michael Foley Photography

Science diplomacy must aim to help all developing countries and not just promote narrow political interests, says Naiyyum Choudhury.

The idea of 'science diplomacy' is fast gaining ground as an effective tool for building ties between developed and developing countries and forging closer working relationships."

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

When Geneva Meets Genetics

When Geneva Meets Genetics: "This concept, labelled ‘science diplomacy’, is defined by Nina Fedoroff, the Science and Technology Adviser to the United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, as “the use of scientific collaborations among nations to address the common problems facing 21st century humanity and to build constructive international partnerships”. Although ‘science’ is difficult to define exactly, scientific interactions can refer to those between individual practising scientists, officials in science-focused policy bodies and non-government organisations, or institutions such as universities, research laboratories and national, scientific academies. In these circles, science diplomacy is the subject of increasing enthusiasm. The United Kingdom appointed its first Chief Scientific Adviser to the Foreign Office last year; Fedoroff was recently elected president of the prominent American Association for the Advancement of Science; and countries from Europe to Asia are beginning to invest in similar programs. This is because politicians, diplomats and scientists all see potential benefits in the many different forms that science diplomacy can assume."

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Remarks at USAID Conference on Transforming Development through Science, Technology and Innovation

Remarks at USAID Conference on Transforming Development through Science, Technology and Innovation: "I always find it very difficult, Madam Secretary, to introduce you, -- (laughter) -- because of course, you need no introduction. But in addition to just being a source of inspiration and being a leader that we all admire and follow and the person who pushed us to think this way about rethinking development as fundamentally a problem of innovation and thinking and acting differently, I will just share that probably when I started with the Gates Foundation and was out in Senegal sometime in the early 2000, 2001, or 2002, I walked into a little hut that was the office of a small microfinance program run by an NGO called Tostan and by a woman named Molly Melching. And I went in and saw on the wall a photograph of Secretary Clinton, who had visited the program and supported Tostan."

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Science, communication, aid and diplomacy - SciDev.Net

Science, communication, aid and diplomacy - SciDev.Net: "Science, communication, aid and diplomacy

David Dickson

16 July 2010 | EN | ES | 中文
climateTalks_flickr_UN_Climate_Talks

Negotiations must be informed, not driven, by science

Flickr/UN Climate Talks

Helping developing countries communicate and use science is essential to international aid and diplomacy.

The biggest single factor limiting developing countries' potential for achieving sustainable economic growth — or even attaining the Millennium Development Goals — is their ability to access and apply the fruits of modern science and technology.

This statement is more complex than it sounds. There are, for example, many political and economic obstacles to accessing science and technology. And even if access is granted, using science and technology effectively and adapting knowledge to local conditions remains challenging."

Monday, July 26, 2010

Diplomacy - Themes - The Royal Society

Diplomacy - Themes - The Royal Society: "Scientists and diplomats don’t make for obvious bedfellows. While science is in the business of uncovering truth, Sir Henry Wootton, the 17th century diplomat, famously defined the ambassador as 'an honest man sent to lie abroad for the good of his country'. But many aspects of foreign policy have scientific components. Science can act as a source of 'soft power' by improving a country’s influence on the international stage. And the networks of cooperation that underpin science are ideally placed to broker solutions to global problems."

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Science, communication, aid and diplomacy - SciDev.Net

Science, communication, aid and diplomacy - SciDev.Net: "Science, communication, aid and diplomacy

David Dickson

16 July 2010

Negotiations must be informed, not driven, by science

Flickr/UN Climate Talks

Helping developing countries communicate and use science is essential to international aid and diplomacy.

The biggest single factor limiting developing countries' potential for achieving sustainable economic growth — or even attaining the Millennium Development Goals — is their ability to access and apply the fruits of modern science and technology.

This statement is more complex than it sounds. There are, for example, many political and economic obstacles to accessing science and technology. And even if access is granted, using science and technology effectively and adapting knowledge to local conditions remains challenging."

Clinton puts science at heart of US development strategy - SciDev.Net

Clinton puts science at heart of US development strategy - SciDev.Net: "Clinton puts science at heart of US development strategy

Yojana Sharma

16 July 2010 | EN | ES | 中文
Hilllary_Clinton_Flickr_sskennel

Hillary Clinton: 'A friend of science'

Flickr/sskennel

Moves by the the US Agency for International Development (USAID) to put science, technology and innovation firmly at the centre of its aid efforts have been enthusiastically endorsed by a rousing speech from secretary of state Hillary Clinton, in which she described herself as 'a friend of science'.

'Innovation, science [and] technology must again become fundamental components of how we conduct development work,' Clinton told a high-level meeting of international development and science experts in Washington DC this week (14 July)."

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Development aid must target knowledge | Tshikululu Social Investments

Development aid must target knowledge | Tshikululu Social Investments: "But the neglect of knowledge, in development cooperation with sub-Saharan African countries, can jeopardise the impact of development cooperation in the targeted areas, said Maassen at a recent colloquium in Oslo on Higher Education and Economic Development in Africa: Findings and implications for development aid, hosted by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, NORAD.

“The long term agenda of donor countries is broad social development in the recipient countries, but this is in conflict with donor demands for short term impact and reporting deadlines,” argued Maassen. The consequence is that where development aid finds its way into universities, it does so in forms that do not contribute to sustained development of the academic core of the institution."

New Prospect for Space Arms Control / ISN

New Prospect for Space Arms Control / ISN: "Obama’s space policy emphasizes international cooperation in scientific research and commercial use of space. National security receives somewhat less importance and has been limited to defense and intelligence operations. This differs from the 2006 space policy, which considered space an important tool to advance US foreign policy objectives and did not oppose the idea of space weaponization.

The so-called Rumsfeld Space Commission Report, which had a strong influence on the 2006 National Space Policy, ascribed orbital weapons significant importance that would provide the US with an extraordinary advantage in military conflicts. The Commission also came to the conclusion that it is a “virtual certainty” that there will be a military conflict in space in the future and urged America to pursue superior space capabilities."

Germany merges its International Development Cooperation

Germany merges its International Development Cooperation: "Merging Germany's Aid agencies
Jul 8, 2010

The German cabinet adopted on July 7, 2010 a detailed plan to merge the government's three separate foreign-aid agencies into one, a move seen as likely to save administrative costs.

Aid Minister Dirk Niebel said after the cabinet meeting that he was still committed to Germany spending 0.7 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) annually on development aid by 2015.

German project: use of solar energy
Enlarge image
Minister Niebel examines a German project on the use of solar energy in South Africa
(� gtz)


But Berlin's federal budget plan, also released Wednesday, says that resources allocated after 2012 are 'not sufficient' to reach this goal. Currently German aid is about 0.4 per cent of GDP. US aid is less than 0.2 per cent of GDP."

KOICA to Bring Solar Power to Developing Nations | Korea IT Times

KOICA to Bring Solar Power to Developing Nations | Korea IT Times: "KOICA to Bring Solar Power to Developing Nations


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Korea IT Times
Monday, July 19th, 2010
solar panels
Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has begun its assistance of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects in the developing nations of Mongolia, Bangladesh, Ethiopia and Djibouti.


The official in KOICA's climate change division revealed in late June that Daegu City Gas, Daesung Global Network, Green Asia, Dongshin Engineering & Consultants had concluded two-year contracts with Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Mongolia and Djibouti. 'The PV project will take off from Ethiopia and Mongolia by the second half of this year at the earliest and proceed gradually to other countries.'"

Monday, July 19, 2010

Tips for survival in the deep end of international project communications

Tips for survival in the deep end of international project communications: "Tips for survival in the deep end of international project communications

by Francis on July 18, 2010

Probably the most common way international projects develop their communications plans is through the simple trial and error of starting a project with an international, virtual team component with no different communications planning than would occur in a single country, co located team methodology."

Obama Wins Nobel Peace Prize � mbt shoes kisumu black sandal unisex free

Obama Wins Nobel Peace Prize � mbt shoes kisumu black sandal unisex free: "Obama Wins Nobel Peace Prize

The Nobel Committee has interrupted the president’s meditations on whether to escalate the war in Afghanistan by awarding him the Peace Prize. The committee cited Obama’s “extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples” and especially his “vision of and work for a ghd iv pink styler world without nuclear weapons.” —PZS"

Science and Innovation

Science and Innovation: "Science and Innovation

Welcome to the web pages of the China Science and Innovation Network team, part of the UK’s science and innovation network in 25 countries.

We facilitate collaboration in science, innovation and its application to global challenges such as health, climate change and food security, bringing together expertise in science, policy and diplomacy."

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

YONHAP NEWS

YONHAP NEWS: "(LEAD) S. Korea to increase int'l R&D efforts to help fuel industrial competitiveness


SEOUL, July 13 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will push to increase international research and development (R&D) efforts in the coming years to help fuel its industrial competitiveness, the government said Tuesday."

Work Together for an Even Better Future of China-EU Relations - New Europe

Work Together for an Even Better Future of China-EU Relations - New Europe: "The release of the China Edition by New Europe comes at an opportune moment, opening a new window for the readers to know more about China. Since the beginning of the 21st century, the trend towards a multi-polar world and economic globalization has gathered momentum. Meanwhile, the world has seen an increasing number of global challenges. Countries are now living in a global village and their destinies are bonded. Therefore, cooperation based on equality and mutual benefit is both the call of history and the option for all countries.
As its econom"

There’s Not Only Disunion in the Mediterranean - Heartland - Limes

There’s Not Only Disunion in the Mediterranean - Heartland - Limes: "There’s Not Only Disunion in the Mediterranean
by Mario Rino Me
Frozen conflicts, unsolved crisis and enduring disputes still affect large parts of the Mare Nostrum, making them unsafe. But the growing interdependence of coastal states makes it possible to ease the tensions. The EU should have a say.
The Mare Nostrum still holds a negative reputation as a result of its security track. In fact a variety of frozen conflicts, unresolved crisis and enduring disputes, have made it one of the main areas of concern. As a consequence many writings on this subject reflect a view stemming from the above sketched geopolitical perspective. Yet, they give us only a part of today’s snapshot, in keeping with today’s media, where synthesis and emotional images are at a premium. Actually the recent history of the Mediterranean shows that the (few) good news are often overshadowed by the more frequent bad news. Therefore, I’ll try to provide you with a broader view and to demonstrate that the glass is half full."

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Local News | For Seattle biologist from South Africa, science is a political act | Seattle Times Newspaper

Local News | For Seattle biologist from South Africa, science is a political act | Seattle Times Newspaper: "'I find it pretty sad that a virus is doing what apartheid wasn't able to do,' he said. 'It's extremely ironic that here in Africa's renaissance suddenly you've got a virus that is basically decimating the place. I feel both positive and discouraged at some level.'"

A New Way to Change the World - Peter Singer — THE MARK

A New Way to Change the World - Peter Singer — THE MARK: "Grand Challenges Canada will bring scientific innovation to the developing world to solve urgent health problems.

The G8 meeting in Huntsville has focused attention on fighting disease and improving health in the developing world, where close to eight million children die each year before their fifth birthday. The challenges of global health also represent an opportunity for Canadians to contribute to a healthier world by bringing the best in science and innovation to international development assistance.

This is why the creation of Grand Challenges Canada is important. It represents a new way in which Canadians can help create a better world, using some of our wealth, knowledge, and human energy to find new solutions to the costly and debilitating diseases that destroy lives, break up families, weaken economies, and impose costly burdens in the developing world."

Romanian Foreign Minister Teodor Baconschi meets Korean Minister of Education and KCCI representatives | Financiarul

Romanian Foreign Minister Teodor Baconschi meets Korean Minister of Education and KCCI representatives | Financiarul: "Romanian Foreign Minister Teodor Baconschi meets Korean Minister of Education and KCCI representatives

8 Iulie 2010

Information in English

Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Teodor Baconschi on Wednesday, the last day of his official visit to Seoul, met South Korean Minister of Education, Science and Technology Ahn Byong-man, informs a press release sent by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE).

The two officials exchanged opinions of the reform and modernization of the education system and identified new means of amplifying the bilateral cooperation in science and technology. On this occasion they presented the activity and goals of the Presidential Council for Future and Vision, which is chaired by the South Korean interlocutor and meant for designing the main coordinates of the long-term development of the Republic of Korea."

Iran to host Islamic nanotech center

Iran to host Islamic nanotech center: "Iran to host Islamic nanotech center
Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:19:20 GMT
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The head of the Iranian Materials and Energy Research Center says the Nanotechnology Network for the Islamic countries will be established in Iran.

'The permanent committee of science and technology cooperation for the Organization of Islamic Conference met in Iran and agreed to establish the center,' Ali Asghar Tofigh was quoted by IRNA as saying.

'The Materials and Energy Research Center (MERC) is designated as the main national hub for the network and the decision will elevate the activities and capacities of the center,” he added."

Future of Life- Evolutionary Thrashing and Social Chaos

Future of Life- Evolutionary Thrashing and Social Chaos: "It will require the rapid creation and strengthening of common frameworks for managing commerce, finance, economics, education, science and technology- including the management of energy, food, water and air quality on a world-wide scale. This has already begun on a regional basis with the strengthening of the European Union and on a global basis since the recent financial melt-down with the creation of the G20.

In other words, it will demand achieving an excruciatingly fine balance between continuing to encourage the creativity, innovation and development that drives our civilization and the risk of social overreach, with the potential to implode it. Only global commitment and good will by all populations on the planet can achieve this resolution."

Iran-ASEAN Business: Iran to host Islamic nanotech center

Iran-ASEAN Business: Iran to host Islamic nanotech center: "Iran to host Islamic nanotech center

The head of the Iranian Materials and Energy Research Center says the Nanotechnology Network for the Islamic countries will be established in Iran.

'The permanent committee of science and technology cooperation for the Organization of Islamic Conference met in Iran and agreed to establish the center,' Ali Asghar Tofigh was quoted by IRNA as saying."

US visas pose 'pervasive problem' - Job Trends - Careers - Tech - The Times of India

US visas pose 'pervasive problem' - Job Trends - Careers - Tech - The Times of India: "Visa-big.jpg
Visa norms
WASHINGTON: A day after India raised the issue of visas for Indian professionals and skilled workers, a senior US official acknowledged that visas posed an 'appallingly pervasive problem' in science and technology cooperation.

'Visas have been an appallingly pervasive problem in science and technology cooperation,' said Dr John P Holdren, advisor to the US president on science and technology, Thursday.

'We need to streamline visa procedures and we have made considerable achievements already in the Obama administration,' Holdren said at the inauguration of first US-India Joint Commission on Science and Technology Cooperation."

Friday, July 9, 2010

House of Wisdom

House of Wisdom: "One year after Obama's 'new beginning'

Obama.jpgSlightly more than one year ago, US president Barack Obama visited Cairo, Egypt, to give his historic speech, widely seen as an outreach effort to Muslim-majority countries around the world.

As he stood in the fabled, gold-adorned grand hall of Cairo University, one of the oldest secular universities in the region, Obama gave a rousing speech, with several promises to Muslims around the world.

Many of these promises remain unfilled or largely ignored today. But to me, and most of the science community in the region, the most important promise the US president made that day was related to increasing science dialogue, outreach and exchange between the US and Islamic countries.

So one year later, where do we stand on that pivotal promise? What are the hits and misses?"

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Second Science with Africa Conference Sets out Innovation as a Centerpiece of the Development Agenda

Second Science with Africa Conference Sets out Innovation as a Centerpiece of the Development Agenda: "Second Science with Africa Conference Sets out Innovation as a Centerpiece of the Development Agenda PDF Print E-mail
Written by solomon
Wednesday, 30 June 2010 12:02

ECA Press Release No. 50/2010

Addis Ababa, 28 June 2010 (ECA) - The Second Science with Africa Conference (SWA II) ended 25th June 2010, after three days of intense discussions, with the adoption of a set of groundbreaking recommendations on how African countries can leverage science and technology to carry their development agenda forward.

The SWA II charted concrete steps towards improving the living conditions of Africans, through innovative ideas based on science and technology. The Conference was convened by the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the African Union Commission (AUC), UNESCO and other partners under the theme: “Science, Innovation and Entrepreneurship”."

Science and Innovation Network | Policies | BIS

Science and Innovation Network | Policies | BIS: "Science and Innovation Network

The Science and Innovation Network (SIN) is a network of UK national and locally engaged staff, that are based in UK Embassies and Consulates abroad.

The Network’s purpose wide ranging, and involves science diplomacy and fostering collaboration in science and innovation. In brief SIN’s work can be summarised as:

* Promoting UK scientific expertise internationally
* Strengthening UK innovation
* Informing effective policymaking and leadership
* Using science and innovation to influence key bodies abroad"

L’Ambassade de Grande-Bretagne en France David Clary blogs on the "Science diplomacy" conference in Paris, 29 June 2010

L’Ambassade de Grande-Bretagne en France David Clary blogs on the "Science diplomacy" conference in Paris, 29 June 2010: "Lorna gave the first presentation and described the Royal Society publication 'New Frontiers in Science Diplomacy' that was published earlier in the year. She also described other recent Royal Society publications ranging from Geoengineering to Islamic Science that also link to Science Diplomacy. In the discussion it was clear that those present were impressed with all the RS activity in this area."

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

U.S. Department of State and Rice University Release Joint Study of Diplopedia

U.S. Department of State and Rice University Release Joint Study of Diplopedia: "U.S. Department of State and Rice University Release Joint Study of Diplopedia

Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
May 21, 2010

A new study released by U.S. Department of State’s Office of eDiplomacy in the Bureau of Information Resource Management and Rice University looks at the five-year history of creating and implementing the Department’s use of the Wikipedia-styled diplomacy Web 2.0 tool, Diplopedia.

Diplopedia is the U.S. State Department's internal knowledge sharing platform – an internal, unclassified, open source wiki platform of 'how-to' knowledge for America's diplomatic corps.

The paper, “Diplopedia Imagined: Building State’s Diplomacy Wiki,” is being presented at the 2010 International Symposium on Collaborative Technologies and Systems in Chicago by its coauthors Tiffany Smith, a State Department employee in its Bureau of Information Resource Management and Chris Bronk, a fellow at Rice University’s Baker Institute Public Policy and lecturer in Rice's Department of Computer Science."

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

News Article

News Article: "Scientists must strengthen focus on poverty and environment
28 June 2010
As part of its support to the Commonwealth Day theme “Science, Technology and Society”, the Commonwealth Foundation recently co-financed a three day international meeting at Wilton Park, UK on 24026 June, on the subject of “Science Diplomacy: Applying Science and Innovation to International Challenges”. Director Mark Collins was there.

In a wide-ranging debate on peace-building, management of international spaces, international treaties and other subjects, one clear priority was for science, technology and innovation (STI) to focus more strongly on poverty reduction, social justice and environmental sustainability, all areas where intergovernmental diplomacy and decision-making have not yet led to the transformational changes needed."

Can science diplomacy help strengthen the Muslim world? � SciDev.Net’s Weblog

Can science diplomacy help strengthen the Muslim world? � SciDev.Net’s Weblog: "Can science diplomacy help strengthen the Muslim�world?

Princess Sumaya of Jordan: 'The Muslim world must learn to cooperate better'
A key element of the new interest in science diplomacy has been the effort, particularly by the US administration, to improve relations with the countries of the Middle East and the Muslim world.

These efforts to use scientific agreements as a central strategy in so-called “soft diplomacy” were highlighted in a speech delivered in Cairo last year by newly elected President Barack Obama who promised a new era of cooperation with the region.

The optimism of that speech has since faded, partly because follow-up is still awaited. But many remain sympathetic to the idea that building a strong scientific and technological base in the region would not only increase the economic strength of Muslim countries, but also have broader cultural and political implications."

Science diplomacy must be more ambitious - SciDev.Net

Science diplomacy must be more ambitious - SciDev.Net: "Science diplomacy must be more ambitious
Naiyyum Choudhury
23 June 2010 | EN | 中文
dhakaWoman_flickr_Michael_Foley_Photography.jpg

Poor countries merit equal support whatever their religion, culture and natural resources
Flickr/ Michael Foley Photography
Science diplomacy must aim to help all developing countries and not just promote narrow political interests, says Naiyyum Choudhury.

The idea of 'science diplomacy' is fast gaining ground as an effective tool for building ties between developed and developing countries and forging closer working relationships.

On one level, scientists have a long history of transcending political barriers to tackle common problems. They were, for example, instrumental in maintaining relationships between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War"

AAAS - AAAS News Release - "Kerri-Ann Jones: The Role of Science Diplomacy in Advancing Global Health"

AAAS - AAAS News Release - "Kerri-Ann Jones: The Role of Science Diplomacy in Advancing Global Health": "Kerri-Ann Jones, assistant secretary of state for oceans and international environmental and scientific affairs, highlighted the Global Health Initiative—launched in May, 2009—as part of a snapshot of science-driven diplomatic initiatives being pursued by the administration of President Barack Obama. She noted that both Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton have spoken of the importance of science and technology in helping the United States achieve its policy goals.

“Science and technology are an integral part of the rich fabric of our global engagement,” said Jones, who plays a key role at the State Department in addressing issues involving science, health and the environment. The role of S&T “is increasingly an element of foreign policy, both from a development and a diplomatic perspective.”

While the State Department has a broad portfolio for science diplomacy, Jones noted the particular importance of global health diplomacy. “Basic health conditions affect a nation’s ability to maintain economic growth and prosperity,” she told a 13 May session of the Forum."

Obama said what about science diplomacy? - aliquot - Open Salon

Obama said what about science diplomacy? - aliquot - Open Salon: "In Obama’s June speech in Cairo, he also promised that three centers of excellence in technology would be opened in the Middle East.� This initiative and the science envoys will mainly focus on the 57 Muslim-majority countries (see image below from AAAS)."

- AAAS 2010 Annual Meeting News

- AAAS 2010 Annual Meeting News: "Science was also a key part of Obama's renewed outreach to the Muslim world, beginning with a June speech in Cairo where he proposed new collaborations between American scientists and researchers in Arabic-speaking countries. The president, said Lander, understood that the 'common language' of science could best 'express the aspiration to leave a better world for our children.'

Obama expanded the U.S.'s science diplomacy efforts with the November 2009 appointment of the first U.S. science envoys, a group that included Science Editor-in-Chief Bruce Alberts and Science Translational Medicine 's chief scientific adviser, Elias Zerhouni.

The diplomacy efforts, said Lander, were one of many subtle signs throughout the year that the Obama administration was attuned to the culture of science. The careful language that Obama used in March as he opened up new stem cell lines for research--encouraging solid research without promising cures--'was reflective of the right way to talk about science,' said Lander."

Obama said what about science diplomacy? - aliquot - Open Salon

Obama said what about science diplomacy? - aliquot - Open Salon: "In Obama’s June speech in Cairo, he also promised that three centers of excellence in technology would be opened in the Middle East.� This initiative and the science envoys will mainly focus on the 57 Muslim-majority countries (see image below from AAAS).
57 countries

In January of this year, British Foreign Secretary David Miliband echoed the sentiments of the Obama administration by outlining the UK’s intent to increase the role of science in foreign policy.� The UK’s Foreign Office also recently appointed a science advisor.�"

Science in diplomacy: “On tap but not on top” � SciDev.Net’s Weblog

Science in diplomacy: “On tap but not on top” � SciDev.Net’s Weblog: "Science in diplomacy: “On tap but not on�top”

Nuclear weapons: a case for science diplomacy
There’s a general consensus in both the scientific and political worlds that the principle of science diplomacy, at least in the somewhat restricted sense of the need to get more and better science into international negotiations, is a desirable objective.

There is less agreement, however, on how far the concept can – or indeed should – be extended to embrace broader goals and objectives, in particular attempts to use science to achieve political or diplomatic goals at the international level."

Monday, June 28, 2010

Scientific cooperation for nuclear disarmament - SciDev.Net

Scientific cooperation for nuclear disarmament - SciDev.Net: "Scientific cooperation for nuclear disarmament
Source: The Royal Society
23 June 2010 | EN

Scientific collaboration should include research into the civilian nuclear fuel cycle
International Atomic Energy Agency
This policy brief, published by The Royal Society, United Kingdom, examines the role of the scientific community in nuclear arms control and disarmament.

Despite the difficulties in advancing the political aspects of nuclear disarmament, there are opportunities for international cooperation to make progress on the scientific aspects."

Science as a shaper of global diplomacy - latimes.com

Science as a shaper of global diplomacy - latimes.com: "Science as a shaper of global diplomacy
The U.S., admired worldwide for its leadership in technology, should pursue science diplomacy with Muslim-majority countries. Such a policy could complement efforts to promote human rights."

June 27, 2010

Monday, June 21, 2010

New centre to advise Muslim world on science policy - SciDev.Net

New centre to advise Muslim world on science policy - SciDev.Net: "New centre to advise Muslim world on science policy

Wagdy Sawahel

10 July 2006 | EN
3 petri dishes with cultures, under the microscope

The new centre will help Muslim countries create effective science policies

CDC

An US$8 million research centre that will help Muslim countries set up effective science policies and national systems of innovation will be inaugurated tomorrow (12 July) in Pakistan.

The Technology and Innovation Policy Research Centre in Islamabad is an initiative of COMSTECH, the Organization of the Islamic Conference's (OIC) committee for scientific cooperation.

It will be staffed by scientists and economists with specialist knowledge of science policy who will provide training courses for students, government officials and policymakers from OIC countries."

New Frontiers in Science Diplomacy 2009 « SciDev.Net’s Weblog

New Frontiers in Science Diplomacy 2009 « SciDev.Net’s Weblog: "Science diplomacy: the case for caution
June 2, 2009

royal-soc-New-frontiers-in-science-diplomacy_DDblog_2One of the frustrations of meetings at which scientists gather to discuss policy-related issues is the speed with which the requirements for evidence-based discussion they would expect in a professional context can go out of the window.

Such has been the issue over the past two days in the meeting jointly organised in London by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and the Royal Society on the topic “New Frontiers in Science Diplomacy“."

Obama brings internationalist outlook to US science - SciDev.Net

Obama brings internationalist outlook to US science - SciDev.Net: "Commenting on his nomination, Holdren said in a statement that 'None of the great interlinked challenges of our time — the economy, energy, environment, health, security and the particular vulnerabilities of the poor to shortfalls in all of these — can be solved without insights and advances from the physical sciences, the life sciences and engineering'."

The limits of science diplomacy - SciDev.Net

The limits of science diplomacy - SciDev.Net: "The limits of science diplomacy

David Dickson

4 June 2009 | EN | ES | 中文
handshake

Using science for diplomatic purposes has obvious attractions and several benefits. But there are limits to what it can achieve.

The scientific community has a deserved reputation for its international perspective — scientists often ignore national boundaries and interests when it comes to exchanging ideas or collaborating on global problems.

So it is not surprising that science attracts the interest of politicians keen to open channels of communication with other states. Signing agreements on scientific and technological cooperation is often the first step for countries wanting to forge closer working relationships.

More significantly, scientists have formed key links behind-the-scenes when more overt dialogue has been impossible. At the height of the Cold War, for example, scientific organisations provided a conduit for discussing nuclear weapons control."

Obama vows to boost science ties with Muslim world - SciDev.Net

Obama vows to boost science ties with Muslim world - SciDev.Net: "Obama vows to boost science ties with Muslim world

Wagdy Sawahel

5 June 2009 | EN | FR | 中文
barackobamaCROPPED_flickr_TheOfficialWhiteHousePhotostream.jpg

Barack Obama speaking at Cairo University

Flickr/The Official White House Photostream

[CAIRO] The United States' commitment to science diplomacy in parts of the developing world assumed a firmer shape yesterday (4 June) when its president, Barack Obama, outlined a science plan during his landmark speech at Cairo University in Egypt.

Obama's speech, which tackled the United States' relationship with Muslim communities around the world, included several pledges to develop science and technology initiatives as part of his vision for promoting peaceful relations.

He pledged to start a new fund to support science and technology development in Muslim-majority countries to help transfer ideas to the marketplace and create jobs.

He said he would also open centres of scientific excellence in Africa, the Middle East and South-East Asia and appoint 'science envoys' to collaborate on programmes to develop new sources of energy, create green jobs, digitise records, clean up water and grow new crops."

US fund aims to boost Islamic technology - SciDev.Net

US fund aims to boost Islamic technology - SciDev.Net: "US fund aims to boost Islamic technology

Wagdy Sawahel

2 November 2009 | EN | FR
arabcomputer_flickr_keatl.jpg

Eligible projects would create opportunities in areas like ICT

Flickr/keatl

[CAIRO] The United States has launched a fund to facilitate private sector investments and promote technological development in countries of the Organisation of The Islamic Conference (OIC).

The Global Technology and Innovation Fund (GTIF) was launched by the US Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) on 23 October. It will provide US$25–150 million for a range of projects. Submissions will continue until the end of the month (November), with final selections announced in June 2010."

US Congress eyes science diplomacy programme - SciDev.Net

US Congress eyes science diplomacy programme - SciDev.Net: "US Congress eyes science diplomacy programme

Jenny Johnson

18 March 2010 | EN
BarackObama_Flickr_jmtimages

Obama's seminal address in Cairo last year kicked off the US science diplomacy agenda.

Flickr/jmtimages

A prominent US congressman has proposed that the United States should set up a foreign policy programme to boost international scientific collaboration, especially with Muslim countries.

The Global Science Program for Security, Competitiveness, and Diplomacy Act of 2010 was introduced to the House of Representatives last week (10 March) by Howard L. Berman, Democratic representative and chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs."

US tech initiative for Muslim women gets mixed welcome - SciDev.Net

US tech initiative for Muslim women gets mixed welcome - SciDev.Net: "And Syeda Tanvir Naim, a consultant to the OIC and a member of the UN Advisory Board on Women and Science, said that these proposals for 'mere four to six weeks training courses in [the] US are totally inadequate'.

Naim said steps that could make a real difference include setting up scholarships and joint research programmes for women from OIC countries to work at top US universities and setting up technology incubators and training facilities within the OIC countries to promote the culture of science entrepreneurship there.

But much of the initiative must come from OIC countries themselves, Naim said."

We are trying to solve the math of the heart and the brain - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

We are trying to solve the math of the heart and the brain - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review: "“Turkey has renewable energy potential as well, like wind and solar energy,” she said. “I have met with 70 different university representatives in the Black Sea region. My impression of those meetings is Turkey could also be a leader in Turkology.”"

Friday, June 18, 2010

President’s “Cairo Initiative” Celebrates a Year of Progress | The White House

President’s “Cairo Initiative” Celebrates a Year of Progress | The White House: "President’s “Cairo Initiative” Celebrates a Year of Progress
Posted by Erin Szulman on June 04, 2010 at 12:20 PM EDT

On Tuesday, June 8, OSTP Director John Holdren will provide keynote remarks at an event commemorating President Obama’s June 4, 2009, speech at Cairo University, which called for deepening relations between the West and Muslim communities around the world. In that speech, President Obama described how America’s strength in science and technology could be enlisted to forge partnerships with Muslim communities and help solve many of our shared challenges. He spoke of appointing a team of “science envoys” to collaborate on programs to develop new sources of energy, create green jobs, digitize records, purify water, and grow new crops. And he spoke of launching a new fund to support technological development in Muslim communities and help transfer ideas to the marketplace to create more jobs."

Global Arab Network | Tunisia as model - 30 years of cooperation with the EU | Economics

Global Arab Network | Tunisia as model - 30 years of cooperation with the EU | Economics: "Tunisia as model - 30 years of cooperation with the EU PDF Print E-mail
By Samira Sadfi
Wednesday, 16 June 2010 17:09
Tunisia as model - 30 years of cooperation with the EU
Thirty years ago, Tunisia was the first Mediterranean country to sign a financial agreement with the European Union. Other countries from the South took Tunisia as an example in this matter. But how did Tunisia benefit from this cooperation?"

Kerri-Ann Jones: The Role of Science Diplomacy in Advancing Global Health | PressReleasePoint

Kerri-Ann Jones: The Role of Science Diplomacy in Advancing Global Health | PressReleasePoint: "“Science and technology are an integral part of the rich fabric of our global engagement,” said Jones, who plays a key role at the State Department in addressing issues involving science, health and the environment. The role of S&T “is increasingly an element of foreign policy, both from a development and a diplomatic perspective.”

While the State Department has a broad portfolio for science diplomacy, Jones noted the particular importance of global health diplomacy. “Basic health conditions affect a nation’s ability to maintain economic growth and prosperity,” she told a 13 May session of the Forum.

The AAAS Forum on Science and Technology Policy is the pre-eminent venue for discussion of policy issues involving science and technology. The 35th annual Forum, with more than 500 attendees, featured talks by key government officials and sessions on such topics as R&D funding, societal impacts of science and technology, new approach to U.S.-European research cooperation, and roles for S&T in national security."