The Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. M. Babur Hizlan, visited COMSATS Secretariat on January 26, 2011. In a meeting with the Executive Director COMSATS, the Turkish Ambassador was apprised of the former’s recent visit to Turkey (December 2010), during which he held meetings with the officials of TÜBİTAK and COMSATS’ Centre of Excellence in Turkey, the Marmara Research Centre (MRC).

The Executive Director informed the Ambassador that his visit to Turkey was extremely useful with regard to strengthening COMSATS’ scientific and technological cooperation with TÜBİTAK and MRC. He was of the opinion that Turkish S&T institutions were carrying out high-quality research work, which could be beneficial for COMSATS’ Member States. In particular, participation of Turkish S&T institutions in COMSATS’ Thematic Research Groups, especially in the field of ‘earth sciences’, could be of great use to COMSATS’ Member States. Matters were also discussed to explore means for collaboration in the field of ‘renewable energy technologies’. The Executive Director lauded the active participation of MRC in the meetings of COMSATS Coordinating Council. He noted that it is a matter of great pleasure that MRC will be hosting the 15th Coordinating Council Meeting, to be held in 2012. Dr. Qureshi opined that in order to further boost cooperation between Turkish S&T institutions and COMSATS, Turkey’s accession to COMSATS will be of great benefit.

The Ambassador thanked the Executive Director for inviting him for the meeting and sharing useful information on the benefits of enhancing future cooperation between COMSATS and Turkish institutions. He appreciated the idea of Turkey becoming COMSATS’ Member State and pledged his full support in this regard.