NANNING, China (Sept. 23, 2012): Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation YB Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Maximus Johnity Ongkili attended the inaugural ASEAN-China Ministerial Meeting on Science and Technology held in Nanning on Saturday (Sept. 22).
The meeting was co-chaired by H.E. Wan Gang, Minister of Science and Technology of China and H.E. Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato’ Seri Setia Hj Suyoi Hj Osman, Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Development cum Minister Responsible for Science and Technology.
During the meeting, the Ministers exchanged views on various issues concerning ASEAN-China cooperation in the field of science and technology. To keep abreast of the cooperation between ASEAN and China, they were also updated on the progress of the activities, workshop, forum and training programmes and ASEAN-China Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Science and Technology.
At the same event, the Asean-China Science and Technology Partnership Programme (ASEAN-STEP) was also launched. This initiative aims to deepen cooperation between ASEAN and China in science, technology and sustainable development. Through this, China will establish a new approach of practical, efficient and robust S&T partnership with ASEAN member states targeting at sharing experience, tapping cooperation opportunities and taking full advantage of S&T’s pivotal role in promoting socio-economic development.
The Ministers also attended the opening ceremony of the 9th China-ASEAN Expo (9th CAEXPO) which was officiated by Chinese Vice-Premier H.E Xi Jinping on Friday (Sept. 21). The exhibition has been held annually since 2004.
Proceeding from the actual needs of ASEAN member states and building on China’s achievements in the R&D of agriculture-related high and new technologies, the exhibition so far has displayed more than 3,000 advanced applicable agricultural technologies, high and new technologies and products, and recorded more than RM4 billion in total volume of technology trade.
The 9th CAEXPO consisted six theme display areas comprising Science and Technology Innovation Achievement; New and Renewable Energy, Environmental Protection; Optical, Mechanical and Electric Appliance, Information Technology; Modern Agriculture; and ASEAN Science and Technology Achievements.
Prior to arriving in Nanning, YB Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Maximus and his delegation visited Shineon Technology Co. Ltd. in Beijing on Thursday (Sept 20). The high- tech company develops and manufactures energy saving and environment-friendly LED lighting solutions. The visit included a briefing on the technology used and tour of the facilities and research and development laboratory.