Isfahan Hosts IASP 2018 World Conference

Attended by Science Minister Mansour Gholami and Vice President for Science and Technology Sorena Sattari, and Josep Miquel Pique, secretary general of the International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP), the ongoing event is themed “Towards sustainable cities and communities: fostering innovation ecosystems.”

According to the event’s website, the conference aims to explore the role tech parks and areas of innovation play in promotion of the innovation ecosystem and the sustainable development of cities, Financial Tribune reported.

During the opening ceremony, Gholami underscored Iran’s fast development when it comes to science and technology parks (STPs), adding that “in less than two decades, 43 STPs have been established around Iran, creating 42,000 employment opportunities.”

The 43 STPs house over 5,000 knowledge-based companies. According to the minister, many of the science and technology companies have the potential to export products.

Noting the presence of the Afghan science minister, Gholami said he is hopeful that the recent collaborations with the neighboring country can develop into more partnerships in innovative projects.

The event has hosted ambassadors from 30 countries as well as specialists from 50 nations. Out of 158 papers submitted from 30 countries, 53 articles will be picked and 27 articles will be presented.

Delegates from the IASP were given a cultural tour of Isfahan ahead of the conference. The Isfahan Science & Technology Town (ISTT) is one of the pioneering science towns in Iran.

The conference is being held in the traditional Abbasi Hotel in Isfahan from September 2 to 5.