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Focal point for regional trade, technical collaboration

The National Science and Technology Commission (NASTEC) has been designated as the policy formulating and advisory body to the Government in the Science and Technology Development Act No. II of 1994. It came into operation in August 1998. NASTEC fulfils a need that has been highlighted for a long time by the scientific community, the establishment of a policy making apex body for science and technology.

Functions of NASTEC

The Commission has been specifically mandated to advise the Government on policies and plans for the development of Science and Technology (S&T) and its application for economic growth and the improvement of the efficiency and the competitiveness of industry, agriculture and services. Among the other areas to which the commission would address itself would be the application of Science and Technology policies in relations to health, nutrition, poverty alleviation and the general improvement of the quality of life of the people. Policies and plans for the proper development and management of the natural resources of Sri Lanka is another area of the Commission's mandate.

Membership of the Commission

The NASTEC Commission consists of seven members appointed by the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, in consultation with the Minister of Science and Technology from among 'persons who have distinguished themselves in the fields of science, technology, agriculture, commerce or industry.' The present members are:

1. Dr. R.O.B. Wijesekera (Chairman)
2. Dr. Gamini Corea
3. Prof. Swarna Jayaweera
4. Prof. Tissa Vitarana
5. Prof. K.K.Y.W. Perera
6. Dr. C.R. Panabokke
7. Prof. Aries Kovoor - Science Advisor to HE President

BIMST-EC

BIMST-EC, which denote 'Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand Economic Co-operation' was established in 1997. This Groupings aim is to achieve trade and technical collaboration within the region based on each member's economic strengths and capabilities. Its membership is confined to countries having directed access to the Bay of Bengal providing members ready access via sea. The regional Grouping's apex body is at the level of Deputy Foreign Minister. However, it has now been recommended to upgrade it to full ministerial level.

The private sector participation in BIMST-EC activities is ensured through the BIMST-EC Business Forum. In Sri Lanka the focal point for the BIMST-EC Business Forum is the National Chamber of Commerce. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively involved with the National Chamber of Commerce in organising the activities of BIMST-EC private sector co-operation.

Sri Lanka has played a leading role in the affairs of BIMST-EC and has now been identified as the lead country for co-operation in the technology sector.

In order to exchange its expertise in the technology sector (Agriculture Technology, Biotechnology, Food Technology, Post Harvest Technology and Herbal drugs and Aromatic Plats and Information and Communication Technology). The National Science and Technology Commissin has been identified by the Ministry for Economics Reform, Science and Technology as the focal point for the BIMST-EC Technology Sector in Sri Lanka.

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