Amman: The Secretary-General of the Higher Council for Science and Technology (HCST), Mashour Al-Rifai, held talks with the Saudi Ambassador to Jordan Prince Mansour bin Khalid Al Saud, focusing on avenues of cooperation in science and technology and the strengthening of bilateral partnerships.
According to Jordan News Agency, Al-Rifai emphasized the robust relationship between Jordan and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the Council's dedication to expanding partnerships with Saudi scientific and research organizations. He noted that such cooperation aims to enhance knowledge exchange, develop human capital, and promote a stronger culture of innovation in both countries.
Potential collaboration areas discussed included joint research projects in priority fields, exchange of researchers and experts, capacity building programs, technology transfer, and linking scientific research with economic and social development. These efforts are intended to create sustainable partnerships that maximize the impact of research and innovation.
The Saudi ambassador praised the role of His Royal Highness Prince Hassan bin Talal in advancing science in the region and commended the reputation of the Council in scientific circles. He expressed Saudi Arabia's interest in strengthening practical cooperation with institutions that share similar objectives, particularly in connecting universities, research centers, and industry.
He emphasized Saudi Arabia's eagerness to develop effective partnerships focused on joint research projects, exchange of expertise, technology transfer, and the development of innovation hubs. He also stressed the importance of building long-term communication channels between academia and industry to support shared development goals.
Mohammad Al-Widyan, Director of the National Center for Research and Development (NCRD), highlighted that the upcoming Red Sea environmental space conference, organized by the Council next year, will serve as a platform to turn cooperation into practical scientific projects. He pointed to opportunities for collaboration in marine sciences, climate studies, geology, and coastal environments, as well as shared interests in areas such as supply chains, maritime security, sustainable forestry, water harvesting, and community involvement in environmental sustainability.