Prince Hassan: Technology, good governance vital to face ‘catastrophic’ challenges

AMMAN — HRH Prince Hassan, chairman of the Higher Council for Science and Technology (HCST), on Sunday called for looking at development through a comprehensive regional vision based on a joint understanding of priorities, mainly realising decent living for humanity. 

Prince Hassan made his remarks during the inauguration session of the 12th International Forum for the Inter-Islamic Network on Water Resources Development and Management (INWRDAM), titled “Interconnection of Water, Energy, Food and Environment for Human Security in the Post-pandemic Era”, in the presence of HRH Princess Sumaya. 

Prince Hassan said that a comprehensive approach, good governance, the use of technology and the reliance on scientific research and “classifying competencies” are important to deal with major issues, such as water scarcity, climate change, energy problems, the economy, population growth and food shortages, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

He also said that there are many opportunities for joint action to face catastrophic challenges and crises. He highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation among countries to reach solutions to these challenges.

HCST Secretary General and INWRDAM President Diyauddin Arafah said that the forum constitutes an opportunity for member states to face future water security challenges and provides a platform to reach an action plan for the next five years. 

General Coordinator for the Organisation of Islamic Conference Standing Committee on Scientific and Technology Cooperation Mohammad Shodari said that the interconnection between water, energy, food and the environment is a complex and dynamic process. 

Shodari stressed the need to move forward with a scientific and technological agenda to help the world address and overcome challenges. 

Japanese Ambassador to Jordan Shimazaki Kaoru said that the participation of Kyoto University of Japan in organising this forum stresses that relations between Japan and Jordan have enhanced further through cooperation between universities and international organisations.