by Meng Fanrong

 

ISLAMABAD, March 5 (Gwadar Pro) - Pakistan-China scientific and technological cooperation is still in its early stage and has not reached the universal standards which need to be more relevant, practical and in-depth. Pakistan and China can play a leading role in developing a science and technology funding program for countries in the region, with scientific institutions in Pakistan and China managing the ongoing project plan.

 

The above views were expressed by Rahmat Ullah, Executive Directive of Institute of Research Promotion (IRP), in an interview with Gwadar Pro recently. He further stated that Pakistan and its western counterparts have historically carried out a large number of scientific projects related to basic science, but academic leaders have come around capital and have not really touched the interests of farmers and labors.

 

“I suggest that China and Pakistan learn from South Korea's experience in producing technology for farmers and labors. After China transfers and exports technology to Pakistan, huge local employment opportunities will be created. And the ability to innovate should come from the people, which will strengthen the connection between the hearts and minds of masses,” Rahmat Ullah underscored.

 

With regard to the direction of cooperation between the two sides, he said that at present, it is mainly tilted towards basic science, and cooperation in the field of applied science and industrial science needs to be strengthened as basic science takes a long time and cycle to create considerable achievements for the masses. “Cooperation in applied science and applied projects can benefit the public in a relatively short term, thereby enhancing their trust and confidence in the development of science and technology. In addition, the two sides need to develop more application capital projects and application activities to link science, technology and industries for the benefit of the people,” he said.

 

Rahmat Ullah stressed that regional scientific blocs must emerge in order to have scientific strength in direct areas where people can exchange their concepts and resources. “China's laboratories have considerable ability to be commercialized and market-oriented. Through the establishment of offices or partnerships in Pakistan, a mechanism can be formed to provide services to the country's industry through Chinese laboratories,” he said.

 

Referring to the projects currently run by his institution, Rahmat Ullah mentioned that one is Sialkot 10X plan to drive growth of Sialkot for 10 times growth which aims to support Sialkot export growth form $ 2 billion at present to $ 20 billion, and the other is Innovative Chakwal to develop Chakwal as a model innovation district reaching zero poverty and other progress indicators.