President Mamnoon Hussain has stressed the need to focus on research in science and technology for the benefit of the country and the Muslims.
He was addressing the 15th session of the Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) General Assembly in Islamabad on Tuesday.
He said science and technology is the best demonstration of human capabilities. The president said that Muslim scientists played important role in 16th century but now they are lagging behind.
The president said that peace and development can be promoted by gaining self-sufficiency in food, water and electricity through science and technology.
He said that our budget allocation for science and technology is mere 2.4 per cent as compared to the developed world. He said now is the time that the budget of research and development be increased.
The president stressed the need for producing highly qualified scientists. He appreciated ten years plan of COMSTECH for promoting science and technology among the member states.
Delegates from different countries also participated in the COMSTECH general assembly.
Special prayers for early recovery, good health and long life of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif were also offered.
Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary General Iyad Ameen Madani called upon the Muslim countries to increase their spendings for the promotion of science and technology to confront the present day challenges.
He pointed out that the Strategic Plan of Action 2025, adopted recently by the OIC, provides a new vision for sustainable development of the member countries to meet the challenges of 21st century.
The secretary general said the OIC countries should enhance collaboration in the field of science and technology.
Minister for Science and Technology Rana Tanveer said the COMSTECH has significantly contributed to the development of science infrastructure in the member countries.
He added that Pakistan remains committed to the objectives of COMSTECH to achieve the past glory of the Muslims in the field of science.
