Strengthening Ties: India and Philippines' Vision for Science Collaboration

India and the Philippines are eyeing collaboration in agricultural biotechnology, geospatial technology, and disaster risk mitigation. Science Minister Jitendra Singh and Philippine Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr focus on translating cooperation into tangible projects. Emphasis is placed on joint research and people-to-people linkages under the Programme of Cooperation.

India's Science and Technology Minister, Jitendra Singh, has proposed stronger collaborative efforts with the Philippines in key areas such as agricultural biotechnology, geospatial technology, and disaster risk mitigation. Singh shared this initiative during his meeting with Renato U. Solidum Jr, the Philippine Secretary of Science and Technology, aiming to convert broad cooperation into actionable projects.

The meeting saw both leaders expressing a keen interest in prioritizing geo-spatial technologies and the blue economy. Singh highlighted the active role of the Philippines in the India-ASEAN Science and Technology framework, emphasizing the importance of joint research initiatives and people-to-people links to bolster bilateral relations.

The discussions underscored the significance of regular India-Philippines Joint Committee meetings to guide project implementation under their agreed Programme of Cooperation. These initiatives include facilitating joint R&D, scientist exchanges, and enhancing regional integration via various capacity-building events.

(With inputs from agencies.)