ISLAMABAD – In a significant step towards enhancing international scientific collaboration, the Ambassador of Thailand to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Rongvudhi Virabutr, visited the Secretariat of the OIC Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) in Islamabad. During the visit, he held a meeting with Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH, to explore opportunities for deepening science and technology cooperation between Thailand and the OIC.
The discussion marked the beginning of a new phase in Thailand-COMSTECH relations, with both sides reaffirming Thailand’s vital role as an observer state and agreeing to launch joint initiatives in key areas of mutual interest.
Key points of collaboration include:
Strategic Cooperation: Recognition of Thailand’s growing engagement with COMSTECH and the OIC community.
Joint Programs and Exchange: Proposals were made for the inclusion of Thai institutions in the OIC Technology and Innovation Portal, participation in COMSTECH’s Youth Leadership Training Program, scholarships and fellowships, and active engagement in youth exchange programs.
Academic Collaboration: Thai universities are set to join the COMSTECH Consortium of Excellence (CCoE) and the Rectors Forum to promote high-level academic exchange.
Science Communication: Support was pledged for COMSTECH’s Journal of Science Communication & Diplomacy and international scientific events.
Halal Science Initiative: A proposal was discussed to establish a regional Halal testing and research center in Thailand.
Women in Science: Thailand expressed interest in supporting research funding for women scientists across the OIC region.
Environmental Cooperation: Both sides agreed to collaborate on environmental challenges and sustainability efforts.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to implement the agreed initiatives in phases, while strengthening bilateral communication and coordination for effective execution.
