Pakistan and Romania Consider Science and Tech Collaboration

Pakistan and Romania are considering working together in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. There are proposed plans for joint projects focused on software creation for the European Union and Gulf markets.

A statement released on Saturday indicated that this development arose during a meeting between Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Khalid Hussain Magsi, and the Romanian Ambassador to Pakistan, Dan Stoenescu. Their discussion centered on enhancing cooperation in science, technology, innovation, and education.

Stoenescu suggested signing a Memorandum of Understanding between Pakistan’s Ministry of Science and Technology and Romania’s National Authority for Digitalisation and National Authority for Research.

Additionally, there was a suggestion to create a Romania–Pakistan Science and Technology Forum, with a particular emphasis on the information technology sector.

According to Stoenescu, Romania is prepared for practical collaboration that will help Pakistan achieve its national objectives while also strengthening the partnership between the two countries.

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During the discussion, the Romanian representative emphasized his country’s dedication to fostering a solid working relationship with Pakistan. He specifically acknowledged the nation’s consistent advancements in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and technology inclusion across its regions.

Stoenescu provided Pakistan with opportunities to participate in significant European Union-funded initiatives through Romania’s supportive involvement within the EU.

These initiatives encompass Horizon Europe (a €95.5 billion research and innovation program), Erasmus+ (focused on education and academic exchanges), and the Digital Europe Programme. These platforms offer avenues for Pakistani organizations to participate in collaborative projects related to AI, cybersecurity, sustainable energy, space technologies, agriculture, and environmentally friendly innovations.

Federal Minister Magsi praised Romania’s success in creating globally recognized tech solutions and successful unicorn companies. He also conveyed Pakistan’s eagerness to gain knowledge from Romania’s effective shift towards a knowledge-driven economy.

The two parties investigated additional prospects for extended cooperation. This included creating joint ventures for software development intended for the EU and Gulf markets, enhancing cybersecurity capabilities, facilitating academic and tech exchanges between Romanian innovation centers and Pakistan’s National Incubation Centres, and undertaking joint research in AI, IoT, and blockchain within the Horizon Europe and Digital Europe frameworks.

They also talked about working together on e-government solutions and changes to digital public services.