(TEHRAN, 26 April 2019) – The Philippines expects to benefit from engaging in Iran in science and technology, as it signed a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) on science and technology cooperation in Tehran on 13 April 2019.

On behalf of the two governments, Philippine Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña and Iranian Vice President for Science and Technology Dr. Sorena Sattari signed the MOU between the Department of Science and Technology and the Vice-Presidency for Science and Technology on Scientific and Technological Cooperation.

Under the MOU, the two countries are poised to undertake joint research and development on innovation and technology of applied sciences, science expert exchanges, conduct joint trainings on specialized courses, promotion of collaboration between knowledge-based companies, private enterprises, and technology parks, among others.

Five areas of cooperation between the Philippines and Iran have been prioritized with the MOU, namely: agriculture and biotechnology, medicine and pharmaceuticals, space technology, advanced materials, and nanotechnology.

“The policy of our government now is to partner with non-traditional partners. I think this where the collaboration with Iran starts. I expect that to be in the areas of research and development, human resource development, and probably in the area of start-ups,” Secretary de la Peña said.

The Philippines will benefit especially in beefing up its nanotechnology and biotechnology innovation capabilities, and technology transfer of research to commercialization. (END)