ASEAN and India Pledge Enhanced Scientific Cooperation, Foster Female Leadership

The 2nd ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conference concluded successfully in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, underscoring a shared commitment between ASEAN and India to bolster scientific cooperation and foster female leadership in science, technology, and innovation (STI) across the region. Under the theme "Building an Inclusive Science, Technology, and Innovation Community," the conference convened 135 delegates, including 90 women scientists and researchers from India and ASEAN member states. The discussions primarily focused on scientific cooperation, promoting women's participation in STEM fields, and accelerating the translation of research findings into practical, implementable solutions. Hem Vanndy, the Minister of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, emphasized the critical importance of investing in women for building a more resilient and innovative future. "Women are the first teachers and the most influential guides for their children. Therefore, empowering women brings long-term benefits to families and society as a whole. When society harnesses the potential of women in STEM and in the fields of science, technology, and innovation, we are not only strengthening individuals but also providing solutions to the major challenges humanity is facing," he stated during the closing ceremony. The three-day conference featured 10 thematic discussions and an innovation pitching session where 55 women scientists competed, presenting scientific and technological solutions in areas such as food security, sustainable energy, equitable education, and emerging technologies. These ASEAN and Indian women scientists also visited the Cambodia Academy of Technology and the Royal University of Phnom Penh to explore opportunities for strengthening research cooperation and institutional partnerships. Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, the Indian Ambassador to Cambodia, lauded the conference's organization as a reflection of the growing comprehensive strategic partnership between ASEAN and India. "The ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conference is a prime example that shows the expansion, both in scope and depth, of the comprehensive strategic partnership between ASEAN and India. We are also ready to further strengthen cooperation on capacity building, innovation, and student and researcher exchange programs," the Ambassador remarked. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, highlighted that the conference strengthens people-to-people ties and opens new avenues for cooperation in digital technology, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sustainable development. "This is not only a forum for dialogue but also creates broader exchanges and cooperation among our researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and youth, while opening new opportunities for inclusive growth, sustainability, and shared prosperity for both ASEAN and India," he added. The conference concluded with a joint commitment to enhance regional scientific cooperation, strengthen professional networks, and create more opportunities for women and girls to become leaders in science, technology, and innovation throughout the region.