New Delhi, 03 June (H.S.): India and South Africa on Wednesday agreed to deepen cooperation in the technology sector, identifying Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing as key priorities for bilateral collaboration.

The understanding was reached during a bilateral meeting held at Kartavya Bhavan between Union Minister Jitendra Singh and South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina.

The Indian delegation included Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, senior departmental officials, and representatives of the Ministry of External Affairs. The South African delegation was led by Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina and included senior officials from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation as well as the South African High Commission.

During the meeting, the two countries explored opportunities for new partnerships in quantum technologies, biotechnology, genomics, vaccine research, and hydrogen energy. Both sides agreed to promote innovation-driven growth by strengthening linkages between scientific research, industry, and start-up ecosystems.

The discussions also focused on enhancing cooperation in health technologies, pandemic preparedness, and the development of affordable healthcare solutions. Both countries decided to expand engagement among scientists, research institutions, and industries while intensifying collaboration in Artificial Intelligence, digital technologies, and advanced manufacturing.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that India has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing innovation ecosystems in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, quantum technology, cyber-physical systems, digital public infrastructure, and start-up-led innovation.

He noted that these advancements create new opportunities for collaborative research, technology development, and innovation partnerships with South Africa.

The minister emphasized that scientific discoveries must be translated rapidly into solutions that improve lives, generate employment, and strengthen economies. He said future cooperation should focus not only on scientific excellence but also on technology deployment, commercialization, and measurable societal outcomes.

Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina said that South Africa values India as a trusted partner and is keen to strengthen institutional ties, research collaboration, and innovation partnerships in priority sectors.

Highlighting the strong foundation of bilateral scientific cooperation, she noted that the two countries have already established an extensive network of collaborative research initiatives, including nearly 150 co-funded projects across a wide range of scientific disciplines.

She expressed confidence that the partnership is now well-positioned for significant expansion into emerging technology domains and innovation-driven cooperation, further strengthening the strategic relationship between the two nations.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar