Yousaf Raza Gilani emphasizes importance of scientific innovation & collaboration in addressing interconnected challenges being faced by OIC countries

ISLAMABAD, July 22 (SABAH): Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has emphasized the importance of scientific innovation and collaboration in addressing the interconnected challenges being faced by OIC countries vis’-a- vis’ water, energy, food, and ecosystems security.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani was addressing the 25th IAS Scientific Conference, titled “Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem Nexus for the Security of OIC Countries,” as Chief Guest on Monday at the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) in Islamabad. The conference, organized jointly by the Islamic World Academy of Sciences (IAS) and the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS), gathered distinguished scientists and researchers to discuss critical issues facing OIC countries. The Chairman Senate acknowledged the vital role of IAS and PAS in fostering scientific excellence as a pivot to address and resolve socio -economic issues. He also highlighted high-profile patronage of IAS by leaders, including Prince El-Hassan bin Talal of Jordan and Asif Ali Zardari, President of Pakistan and called it indicative of the significant political support for scientific progress.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani underlined that national security now encompasses a broader range of issues beyond traditional military threats. He pointed out that these challenges are particularly acute in OIC countries due to rapid population growth and environmental degradation.

He drew attention of the participants towards Pakistan’s own efforts to tackle these issues, including the national tree plantation campaign and comprehensive climate change policies introduced during his tenure as Prime Minister. He urged continued commitment to scientific research and innovation to drive sustainable development and address shared challenges effectively.

Chairman Senate called upon the Parliamentary Union of OIC Member Countries (PUIC) to play a proactive role in advancing sustainable development agendas through legislative measures and science diplomacy. He also recommended prioritizing good governance, incentivizing sustainable practices, and providing financial support for research and development in clean energy and climate resilience.

He reaffirmed commitment to fostering scientific research and innovation as key drivers for inclusive development and growth. He expressed hope for continued collaboration to support interdisciplinary cooperation in terms of promoting science diplomacy for the betterment of the OIC countries.

Senator Sherry Rehman also participated in the conference and read out message from the President Asif Ali Zardari. Prof. Kausar Abdulla Malik , President Pakistan Sciences Academy, Prof. Adnan Badran, President, Islamic World Academy of Sciences also addressed the gathering and highlighted the crucial role of water, energy , food and ecosystem.

Speakers observed that our challenges are common and there is need for adopting collective approach to tackle the burgeoning threats posed by climate change.