'Importance of science and technology for socio-economic development'

By TRN Online, Kathmandu, Sept. 17: Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Dr. Bedu Ram Bhusal has delivered a statement on behalf of the group of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in G77 and China Summit in Havana, Cuba under the theme “Current development challenges: the Role of Science, Technology and Innovation”.

According to a press release issued by the Permanent Mission of Nepal to the United Nations, in his address, Minister Dr Bhusal highlighted the importance of science and technology, including the latest technologies associated with the fourth industrial revolution, for socio-economic development, combatting climate change and fighting against pandemics and other vulnerabilities.  

He expressed serious concerns over the technological and digital divide between the developed and developing nations, particularly, the LDCs. ‘We must keep on pushing for the transfer of technologies from the developed nations, which has not materialized even after decades in spite of concrete promises,’ he emphasized. 

The minister also underlined the need to promote STIs through public policies, incorporating them in education systems and encouraging technological entrepreneurship. He called for the cooperation of the global South to implement the Doha Program of Action for the LDCs, which features the development of STIs in LDCs as a key priority. 

Speaking in a national capacity, Minister Bhusal shed light on the development policies and priorities of Nepal, including preparations to graduate from the LDC status. 

The Summit adopted the Havana Declaration on “Current Development Challenges: the Role of Science, Technology and Innovation” as its outcome. 

The minister also had a meeting with Ydael Jesus Perez Brito, Minister for Agriculture of Cuba. In the meeting, they shared views about the agriculture policies and priorities of the sector, focusing on how agriculture production could be increased with the help of mechanization and technology. 

Minster Bhusal also congratulated his counterpart for successfully holding the Summit and thanked him for the hospitality.