Iran Expands Innovation: Launching New Tech Hubs Across Regional Countries

TEHRAN – The Vice Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy is taking significant steps to enhance scientific collaborations by establishing new branches of the Iranian House of Innovation and Technology (iHiT) in regional countries. This initiative aims to strengthen economic ties and knowledge exchange despite the challenges posed by unilateral sanctions.

According to IRNA, Hossein Afshin, the vice president for science, technology, and knowledge-based economy, stated, “Despite unilateral sanctions, we have had no problems with regional countries in boosting and exchanging scientific collaborations.” He emphasized that science diplomacy should not be limited to interactions with American or European nations, highlighting the potential for partnership with regional and Islamic countries.

One of the latest iHiT branches has been launched in Jakarta, Indonesia, aiming to enhance economic relationships and facilitate the export of knowledge-based products. The establishment of this center was supported by the Vice-Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy and the Organization for Development of International Cooperation in Science and Technology. The launch coincided with the 37th Indonesia Hospital Expo, which took place from September 25 to 28, as reported by ISNA.

During the inauguration ceremony, officials expressed optimism that the new center would serve as a pivotal moment for economic relations between Iran and Indonesia. “It will pave the way for a stronger presence of Iranian companies in Southeast Asian markets,” they stated, further noting that the center is designed to enhance cooperation in health and technology sectors.

In addition to the Jakarta branch, Iran is set to inaugurate its first iHiT in China within the coming months, marking another significant step in expanding its international presence.

Fostering Scientific Collaborations with Neighboring Countries

The current administration prioritizes the cultivation of scientific collaborations with neighboring nations, according to a representative from the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology. Farhad Yazdandoost stated, “The high capacities of the neighboring countries, on one hand, and their need to import Iran’s science and technology, on the other hand, will lay the basis for the expansion of relations.”

• The Islamic Revolution has ushered in significant advancements in science, technology, and higher education in Iran.
• Iran has demonstrated its accomplishments through collaborations with universities worldwide.
• Iranian scientific elites have gained recognition and respect globally.

President Masoud Pezeshkian’s administration is actively working to resume and bolster cooperation with countries that prioritize scientific development. Yazdandoost noted that “scientific communication is not just limited to neighboring countries.” The administration is also focused on strengthening scientific and international partnerships with Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries.

The strategy includes plans to develop ties with non-neighboring countries that rely on external scientific support. This would allow Iran to share its expertise and knowledge. The official highlighted the importance of cooperation with leading Asian countries in science, such as China and South Korea, as well as nations in Africa and South America. “This will help them get familiar with Iran’s potential, which will definitely bring about favorable results,” he remarked.

In summary, the Vice Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy is committed to fostering international scientific collaborations, particularly with regional countries. The establishment of iHiT branches serves as a testament to Iran’s dedication to advancing its scientific and technological capabilities on a global scale. This initiative not only aims to enhance economic ties but also to showcase Iran’s potential in various fields, ranging from health to technology.

By focusing on partnerships with neighboring and regional countries, Iran is positioning itself as a key player in the global scientific community, ready to share its knowledge and collaborate on innovative solutions for mutual benefit.