‘Development must focus on rebuilding trust with society through seperating past from its practices’

AMMAN — Under the patronage of HRH Prince Hassan, the Jordanian National Consultation Meeting was held on Monday to discuss a bill on ethics in science and technology in the Arab region.

Prince Hassan, head of the Higher Council for Science and Technology, said that Jordan has set an example in sustainable development through its prioritising and planning, yet: “Jordan today needs an industrial, productive base which falls in line with the Kingdom’s priorities”.

“Development must focus on rebuilding trust with society through separating the past from its practices, and also focusing on social and individual needs,” the Prince said.

“We need to surpass discussing the general views and understand that development is a product of science and technology, if we want to compete with the rest of the world.”

In her opening speech, HRH Princess Sumaya, president of the Scientific Royal Society, said: “We believe that science and technology is the only way to find solutions for the challenges facing our world and the best way to ensure a better life for future generations.”

The Princess stressed the need to “create an ethical guide which protects scientific and technological research and its outcomes, to facilitate its success and guide it in the right direction in order to minimise mistakes”.

The discussion aimed at reviewing opinions and Jordan’s experience in scientific research, before submission of the bill to the Arab League, the Princess said.

UNESCO Regional Director Gaith Fraiz highlighted the development and humanitarian challenges facing Arab states.

“These challenges require swift knowledge and technological intervention, while the MENA region suffers from a knowledge and technological gap, which limits its potential and progress,” said Fraiz.

Minister of Justice Bassam Talhouni, who attended the event on behalf of Prime Minister Omar Razzaz, highlighted the need to ensure the safe and proper use of technology in a way that does not affect other people’s rights.

“At the same time, the government is responsible for preventing misuse of information and communication technology and ensuring the protection of personal data,” added Talhouni.

The suggested bill addresses issues such as safety measures, human dignity, animal rights, preserving and safeguarding the environment, productive communication, justice and protecting freedoms and rights, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

‘Development must focus on rebuilding trust with society through seperating past from its practices’