Canada and India will be partnering on 10 science and technology (S & T) initiatives as announced recently by Minister of Foreign Affairs David Emerson. “Our government understands the importance of establishing international research partners and the crucial role science and technology play in the new economy,” said Minister Emerson in a released statement.
He added that these joint projects will enhance the collaboration between scientists and commercialize their discoveries. In addition to India, Canada has S & T agreements with five other countries and the European Union.
Under the agreement with India, areas of cooperation include biotechnology, health research, sustainable and alternate energy and environmental technologies, information and communications technology and disaster management.
The Canadian portion of both projects and partnerships is funded through the International Science and Technology Partnerships Program and is delivered by International Science and Technology Partnerships Canada (ISTPCanada). “These projects form the basis of the networking opportunities that lead to strong research linkages with high potential for commercial success,” said Henri Rothschild, president and CEO of ISTPCanada.
The projects with India are a result of the Canada-India Agreement for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, which was signed in November 2005. The International Science and Technology Partnerships Program (ISTPP) is a five-year, $20 million Canadian program, the aim of which is to build stronger science and technology relationships with other countries.
Some of the 10 projects announced include:
– The design of an interoperable geoportal product that permits the transfer of spatial data infrastructure across different computer platforms and portal products.
– The development of a simple diagnostic tool for use on the farm or feedlot to test dairy and cattle for diseases such as bovine respiratory disease and mastitis.
– The development of technology that permits broadband internet access on existing power line technology in India.
For more information visit the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada site at www.international.gc.ca
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