The First International Science Forum of National Scientific Organizations on the Belt and Road Initiative opens on November 7 in Beijing. (Image by CaS)

The declaration is a response to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s 2013 proposal to create a Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road. The Belt and Road Initiative is a forward-looking vision for international cooperation and shared development that spans three continents and their contiguous oceans and seas. The countries along the Belt and Road have diverse cultures, histories, and natural environments; they have different economies and social policies. But, they also face a spectrum of shared major challenges in both initiating and sustaining development. To address these challenges, science, technology and innovation (STI) must play a strong central role. National academies, regional scientific, research and technological organizations and scientists along the Belt and Road must therefore deepen cooperation in a sustained and systematic way to address these challenges. They should establish strong scientific basis for shared and sustainable development.

To strengthen mutual understanding, common interests and aspirations, the leaders and representatives of over 20 national and international scientific organizations from the Belt and Road regions, and around 350 Chinese and international scientists and experts, convened in Beijing on November 7–8, 2016. This was the first International Science Forum of National Scientific Organizations for the Belt and Road Initiative.

Round-table meeting of the First International Science Forum of National Scientific Organizations on the Belt and Road Initiative.(Image by CaS)

Based on the consensus reached, the participating organizations wish to make the following statements:

1. Strengthen cooperation in science, technology and innovation (STI) for the promotion of shared development

Science, technology and innovation are major drivers for social economic development and should be prioritized in the Belt and Road development. The collective national academies, national and regional research organizations are an important scientific force that can support that development and should play a leading role. National and regional scientific organizations should mobilize and unify scientists and experts from different disciplines in cooperating on the major needs and common scientific challenges for the realization of green, quality and sustainable development. Particular attention should be given to the involvement of young scientists and participation by women scientists. We will ensure a responsible scientific approach and provide strong support to science-based policy-making.

2. Build a platform for co-innovation and long-term STI cooperation

National and regional scientific organizations along the Belt and Road commit to establishing long-term effective Belt and Road cooperation mechanism that facilitates bridge-building and organizes research and innovation, strategic advice, policy communication, and capacity growth in science and education.

We agree to form a working group (secretariat) to support the operation of the mechanism, and to establish an alliance of international scientists along the Belt and Road to support and carry out international cooperation. We also commit to holding the forum every two years. All of these actions are to be developed under the principles of equity and equality, willingness and mutual benefit and with adherence to processes promoting joint discussion, collaboration and sharing.

3.  Focus on major challenges and organize related international programs

Taking advantage of our multi-disciplinary and regional features, we commit to supporting and organizing research programs in areas of strategic importance to the Belt and Road construction.

The Belt and Road Initiative aiming at shared development harmonizes the fundamental interests of the international community and adds a new positive force to peace and development in the world. National and regional scientific organizations, and scientists and experts from different fields need to strengthen cooperation by sharing information and supplying continuous and strong scientific support for shared development and common prosperity.

Source: english.cas.cn