ISLAMABAD: The Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) has offered Turkey to join the organization for promoting S&T development in the South.

In order to explore the possibility of Turkey joining the organization as a Member State, the Executive Director, Dr. I.E. Qureshi visited the Ankara based Headquarter of TÜB?TAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey) and extended the membership offer. The scope of COMSATS activities, relevant to the interests of Turkey were discussed thoroughly during the visit.

In a presentation, the Vice President of TÜB?TAK, Professor Dr. Ömer Anla?an, informed Dr. Qureshi about TÜB?TAK’s role in the development of science and technology in Turkey.

COMSATS is an active inter-governmental organization working for the promotion of research and developmental activities through South-South co-operation, in which member countries mutually share S&T expertise from within the country’s’ indigenous institutions. In this process, COMSATS plays the role of facilitator through the networking of scientists and experts in its 16 Centers of Excellence located in three continents.

The headquarters of COMSATS is located in Islamabad.

Speaking to Dawn.com, Dr. Qureshi said that COMSATS already holds strong ties with Marmara Research Institute of Turkey since 1994. Marmara institute is a leading center of Excellence working under TÜB?TAK.

“Turkey has an advanced research and development infrastructure and a strong set up of rapidly growing industries. The country also has many prestigious institutes of Information Technology, Aviation, Space Technology, Shipping, Automobiles and Construction. That is why COMSATS is greatly interested for Turkey to join the organization as a Member State”, said Dr. Qureshi.