In a significant step towards strengthening the scientific and technological ties between Wales and India, Prof. Jas Pal Badyal FRS, the Chief Scientific Advisor for Wales, recently met with India's Principal Scientific Advisor, Prof. Ajay K Sood FRS. The meeting, which took place in New Delhi, focused on showcasing Wales' world-class circular economy, med-tech, and agri-tech sectors, with the aim of fostering collaboration and investment opportunities between the two countries.
Prof. Ajay K Sood, one of the most influential decision-makers on science and technology in India, advises the Government's cabinet on both domestic and international strategic scientific matters. The meeting with Prof. Badyal forms part of a wider programme of activities in New Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, where the world-leading scientist, technology entrepreneur, and advisor is promoting the potential for partnership and investment in Welsh technology and cutting-edge science businesses.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the meeting, Prof. Badyal said, "I'm delighted to be showcasing the best applications of Welsh-based technology and innovations at a global level to fast-growing high GDP economies. Speaking with Prof. Sood provided a unique opportunity to do so with someone of significant leadership and stature on the international stage." He further emphasized the potential benefits that could arise from the strategic relationships forged during the year of Wales in India, leading to increased investment and collaboration opportunities.
During the meeting, Prof. Badyal and Prof. Sood discussed Wales' world-class circular economy sectors and explored ways in which the two countries could benefit from each other's expertise in the future. The protection of the environment, being one of the most significant challenges facing humanity today, was a key topic of discussion. The two advisors agreed to follow up on some of the topics of mutual interest before another meeting later this year.
Prof. Sood expressed his pleasure at the exchange, stating, "I am very pleased that today's exchange with Prof. Badyal will further deepen the engagement between India and Wales on matters of mutual scientific interest. There is a high potential to scale up our collaborations in areas ranging from green and renewable energy, biodiversity, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, semiconductors, digital transformation to skill development." He also lauded Wales' efforts in the circular economy model, emphasizing the commonalities between the two countries and the potential to increase exchanges on this matter.
The meeting between Prof. Badyal and Prof. Sood highlights the growing scientific and technological ties between Wales and India. With a focus on circular economy, med-tech, and agri-tech sectors, the two countries are poised to combine their strengths to develop innovative solutions through shared research and development and investment. This collaboration aims to address various common and global challenges, fostering a symbiotic relationship between Wales and India.
As the year of Wales in India continues to celebrate the strong cultural, economic, and educational links between the two countries, meetings like this one between Prof. Badyal and Prof. Sood serve to further strengthen the scientific and technological cooperation between Wales and India. The potential for increased investment, collaboration, and knowledge exchange in cutting-edge sectors holds promise for both nations, as they work together to tackle global challenges and drive innovation in the years to come.
