Turkey and Asia Unite in Science Diplomacy for Sustainable Development: A Look at the International Symposium Hosted by TÜBA and AASSA

The Turkish Academy of Sciences (TÜBA) and the Association of Academies and Societies of Sciences in Asia (AASSA) are set to host an international symposium on science diplomacy for sustainable development. The event, which will take place on June 28 in Ankara, aims to bring together experts from various fields such as academics, diplomats, representatives of regional organizations, scientists, and researchers. Spanning two days, the symposium will focus on exploring the power of science diplomacy in addressing global challenges and creating a roadmap for the future.

The opening speeches for the symposium will be delivered by William Colglazier from the American Association for the Advancement of Science’s Center for Science Diplomacy and Professor Hüseyin Şeker from Birmingham City University. TÜBA President Professor Muzaffer Şeker highlighted the importance of international collaboration in tackling pressing global issues such as COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, migration, and environmental pollution. He emphasized that science diplomacy plays a vital role in promoting sustainable development through scientific dialogue and partnerships and ensuring a better future for all.

Professor Şeker underscored that the symposium is crucial in facilitating knowledge exchange between nations and emphasizing interdisciplinary networks to find solutions to complex challenges such as pandemics, wars, mass displacements, rapid population growth unequal development between societies limited resources. TÜBA Principal Member and AASSA President Professor Ahmet Nuri Yurdusev acknowledged that sustainability is an important topic that has been discussed extensively over the past 40 years but emphasized that urgent action is needed to address current disruptions that go beyond legal and political boundaries. He concluded that science diplomacy led by academies can play a crucial role in contributing to sustainability globally.