Science and technology would help resolve global issues: Harsh Vardhan

He said by promoting technology and applied research, partnership among the BRICS nations in the areas of energy, water, nano technology and entrepreneurship could be enhanced.

“Science and technology has the potential to help the world. Through BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation, we can deliver things to the world and resolve issues,” Harsh Vardhan said.

In the meeting, ministers from the BRICS nations gave detailed presentations about the use of science and technology in their respective countries.

Brazil’s Vice Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation Alvaro Toubes Prata, while highlighting the importance of scientific and technological innovations, said they are using same for various social welfare and developmental projects in their country.

China’s Vice Minister of Science and Technology Jiang Hua said various scientific innovations are taking place in their country for the welfare of the people.

Harsh Vardhan said that there is “no tension” between India and China at the moment when asked about the relations between the two countries.

He said the 8th BRICS summit would be held in Goa between October 15-16 and today’s meeting was its precursor and was attended by ministers from the member countries- Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Deputy Minister of Russia Alexey Lopatia and South Africa’s Minister of Science and Technology Naledi Pandor represented their respective countries in the meeting.

The members later adopted a 21-point Jaipur Declaration resolution reaffirming commitment to implement the strategy for ‘BRICS Economic Partnership’ adopted at the BRICS Ufa summit which emphasises utilising science and technology and innovation as key drivers to address global and regional socio-economic challenges.