Thailand and COMSTECH have initiated a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening scientific and technological cooperation, launching various joint initiatives, including youth development programs, halal sciences collaboration, support for women scientists, and environmental cooperation.
Ambassador of Thailand to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Rongvudhi Virabutr, met with Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH, at the COMSTECH Secretariat in Islamabad. The meeting underscored Thailand’s important role as an observer state and marked the beginning of a new phase of strengthened collaboration between Thailand and COMSTECH, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation.
Both parties discussed multiple avenues for collaboration to enhance educational exchanges, scientific cooperation, and mutual development. Among these initiatives is the registration of Thai institutes in the OIC Technology and Innovation Portal, providing increased visibility and exchange opportunities in scientific innovation. Thailand also agreed to actively participate in COMSTECH’s Youth Leadership Training Program, offering youth scholarships, fellowships, and exchange opportunities that foster leadership and knowledge-sharing among young talents from the region.
Additionally, collaborative efforts will include the participation of Thai universities in the COMSTECH Consortium of Excellence (CCoE) and the Rectors Forum, aiming to promote academic networking, research partnerships, and dialogue on educational challenges and opportunities. Thailand expressed willingness to support international scientific events and contribute actively to the COMSTECH Journal of Science Communication & Diplomacy.
Significantly, both sides agreed upon establishing a regional halal testing and research center in Thailand to critically advance research, innovation, and standardization efforts in halal science. This initiative signals Thailand’s priority towards strengthening its role in the globally expanding halal market.
Recognizing the importance of gender equality in scientific arenas, the partnership also includes targeted support for women scientists, providing research funding to empower their careers and enhance female representation in STEM fields. Environmental cooperation, another key topic discussed during the meeting, demonstrates the shared concern and commitment towards sustainability goals and improved regional environmental management.
The meeting concluded with a firm commitment by both Thailand and COMSTECH to gradually implement these initiatives, maintaining consistent bilateral communication channels to ensure effective execution and generate meaningful scientific, educational, and technological outcomes in the future.
