HCST, Spanish centre sign memo over scientific research

AMMAN — A memo seeking to promote cooperation in the fields of science and technology was signed between Jordan and Spain on Sunday.

The memo was signed on behalf of the Higher Council for Science and Technology (HCST) by its Secretary General Khaled Shuraydeh and General Director of Centre for the Development of Industrial Technology (CDTI) Francisco Perez in the presence of Spain's Ambassador in Amman Aranzazu Davalos.

The MoU aims to strengthen the scientific and technological cooperation between Jordanian and Spanish institutions and research entities, in order to reach collaborative technological alliances, and develop projects in areas of mutual interest.

The memo also seeks to enhance the exchange of expertise, knowledge, learning, capacity building and awareness-raising within both countries, according to a statement by the HCST.

Omar Amawi, Acting Director of the International Cooperation Department at HCST, told The Jordan Times that the aim of the MoU is to "transfer the outputs of scientific research into concrete services benefiting the industry and business fields".

"The project will be implemented through the launch of mutual 'Calls for Proposals' targeting Spanish and Jordanian parties with common interest," he said, adding that, although each country will be supporting their local institutions, they will be working towards a continuous exchange of knowledge.

"The general framework will be based on 'Technology Transfer', which will help connect the scientific sector with the business community, including the industrial sector," Amawi stated.

He added that this process will also benefit the business community, by providing solutions to their needs and challenges through scientific research.

"This project aims at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working in the key sectors of the Jordanian economy, mainly water, energy, food, and health," he stressed.

"As the 'national umbrella' for all scientific and technological activities, HCST is Jordan's window for any cooperation with other countries in these fields," Amawi noted.

He noted that this project will be implemented by the Scientific Research and Industry Development Fund, which is affiliated with the HCST.

Amawi highlighted the multiple agreements made with Spain in the past, stressing the mutual priorities shared by the two countries.

The HCST is an independent governmental organisation, established in 1987 to build a national science and technology base, and it strives to enhance Jordanian capabilities in all fields of science and technology in order to achieve comprehensive and sustainable economic, social and cultural development in the Kingdom, according to a HCST statement.