Iran and SCO: Science and Technology Cooperation in the Post Techno-globalism Era

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Assistant Professor, School of Management, Economics and Progress Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran

10.22059/jcep.2024.379492.450237

Abstract

Introduction: Iran’s full membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is an important milestone and introduce this country as the ninth member of the largest regional cooperation organization. The transformation of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization from an institution focused on security to an institution that includes economic, industrial, educational, and technological cooperation brings many opportunities and challenges for Iran. This article examines how Iran can use its membership in the SCO to enhance its scientific and technological capabilities in the post globalization era characterized by technological nationalism and geopolitical competition.
Research question: How Iran can use the capabilities of the SCO to promote its scientific and technological development?
Research hypothesis: Iran’s membership in the SCO, despite existing political, institutional, and cultural challenges, strengthens its technological capabilities and self-sufficiency through regional cooperation.
Methodology: This research uses a qualitative method, including an extensive review of theoretical foundations, document analysis, and a combination of relevant studies and literature. The analysis focuses on opportunities and potential challenges associated with Iran’s integration within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and examines both historical contexts and contemporary developments.
Results and discussion: Iran’s membership in the SCO provides significant opportunities for scientific and technological progress. The key areas of these potentials are:
Development of emerging technologies: Iran can benefit from joint efforts in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, Nano-Technology and renewable energy. Joint research projects with SCO member states can accelerate technological innovations and increase Iran’s global competitiveness. For example, partnering with countries like China that have advanced capabilities in AI and biotechnology, can give Iran access to advanced technologies and expertise.
Access to joint financial resources: The SCO framework facilitates access to pooled financial resources and enables Iran to finance large-scale research and development projects. Joint financing mechanisms can support the development of advanced research infrastructure and technology parks. Such financial cooperation can reduce the financial burden on individual countries and promote joint technological advances.
Enhanced international competitiveness: Regional cooperation can enhance Iran's international competitiveness by promoting the export of advanced technological products. Integration in regional value chains can improve product quality and competitiveness in high-tech sectors. Cooperation with SCO members can help Iran reach wider markets and facilitates economic and industrial growth.
Reduction of dependency on foreign technologies: Iran can reduce its dependence on Western technologies and increase its self-sufficiency by using the capabilities of the member countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Collaborative efforts can foster the development of indigenous technologies, reducing the cost and complexities associated with technology transfer. This self-sufficiency is very important in the context of technical nationalism, where countries seek to minimize reliance on foreign technological inputs. Despite these promising opportunities, several challenges must be addressed:
Political conflicts among member states: The longstanding rivalry between China and India, as well as other political conflicts, poses significant obstacles to effective cooperation. Such conflicts can lead to mistrust and decrease willingness to share knowledge and resources. For Iran, navigating these political dynamics requires skillful diplomacy and strategic engagement to mitigate the impact of regional tensions on joint efforts.
Institutional and legal disparities: Differences in intellectual property laws, bureaucratic procedures and research governance among SCO members require coordination to ensure smooth collaboration. Iran should harmonize its intellectual property regulations with international standards to facilitate technology transfer and joint research initiatives. Harmonization of legal frameworks can facilitate cooperation and protect innovation and create a more favorable environment for scientific and technological progress.
Cultural and logistical challenges: Cultural differences, time zone differences and different national holidays can disrupt coordinated efforts. Effective cooperation requires cultural sensitivity and logistical planning to accommodate diverse work practices and schedules. Educational and awareness programs can bridge cultural gaps, foster mutual understanding and cooperation between researchers from different countries.
Conclusion: Iran’s membership in the SCO is a unique opportunity to leverage regional cooperation for scientific and technological progress. By addressing institutional, legal, cultural, and political challenges through strategic policy interventions, Iran can maximize the benefits of SCO membership. Strengthening research and development infrastructure, harmonizing intellectual property laws, implementing educational initiatives and developing common technological standards are essential steps. These efforts can improve Iran's regional and global position in science and technology and cause sustainable technological growth and economic development.
To take full advantage of the opportunities offered by SCO membership, Iran should adopt a multi-faceted strategy that includes following policy recommendations:
Strengthening research and development infrastructure: Investing in advanced research facilities and establishing joint research centers with SCO member countries to foster joint innovation. This includes the establishment of technology parks and incubators that facilitate the growth of start-ups and small and medium enterprises in the high-tech sectors. Harmonization of intellectual property laws: Aligning Iran’s intellectual property regulations with international standards to facilitate seamless technology transfer and protection of innovations. This will help build trust among SCO members and encourage more collaborative projects. Educational initiatives: Implementing programs to enhance cultural understanding and logistical coordination between researchers from different countries. Exchange programs, joint workshops and conferences can help bridge cultural gaps and foster a spirit of cooperation.
Development of Common Technological Standards: Work with SCO member states to develop common standards and regulations. This simplify technology transfer, increases compatibility and ensure that collaborative projects are mutually beneficial. Strategic diplomacy: Engage in strategic diplomacy to navigate political conflicts in the SCO. Building strong bilateral relations with key member states and participating in multilateral dialogues can help reduce tensions and promote an atmosphere of cooperation.
The integration of Iran into the SCO brings important opportunities and fundamental challenges. The SCO provides a strong platform for strengthening regional cooperation in science and technology, which can drive innovation and economic development. However, realizing these benefits requires addressing political conflicts, institutional inequalities, cultural differences and logistical challenges. Through strategic policy interventions and joint efforts, Iran can maximize the benefits of SCO membership, foster sustainable technological advancement and enhance its global competitiveness.

Keywords

References

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Central Eurasia Studies
Volume 17, Issue 2
March 2025
Pages 399-432

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