Statement of the 23th Governing Board

The Governing Board of the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) held its 23rd meeting at the ISTC Headquarter in Moscow. Representatives from all 11 ISTC Parties attended with the European Union, Japan, Russian Federation, United States of America, and the Republic of Armenia represented on the Governing Board.

The ISTC approved 89 new projects representing over $21 million in new funding for activities in Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakstan, and the Kyrgyz Republic. New funding was provided by the EU, USA, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. These projects highlight important areas of science and technology research and development: monitoring and prediction of seismic activity; pre-clinical testing of immuno-biological compounds; atmospheric re-entry technologies for scientific probes; chemical micro-sensors for atmospheric pollution monitoring; creation of wind energy infrastructure.

The Board announced that 23 Partner projects totaling $3 million have been approved since the 22nd meeting, and noted the expanding participation of Partners in ISTC activities. ISTC Partners are intergovernmental, governmental, and non-governmental organizations (including the private sector) that provide funds to engage CIS scientists in peaceful research projects. Total ISTC project funding in all categories now surpasses US$316 million for 1,156 projects.

The Budget Request for FY2001 was approved by the Board, and reflects the broad range of activities now conducted by the Center. The Parties have confirmed through their voluntary contributions the Science Project Program, and other ISTC activities supporting awareness, training and communication, and valorization of project results; these contributions amount to $1.7 million. The Governing Board addressed financial and operating issues for the Center, and welcomed ISTC progress in improving efficiency and implementing safeguards in its operations.

The Governing Board approved the “Year 2000 Review of the ISTC,” indicating new directions and issues for the ISTC to address as it prepares for nonproliferation challenges in and beyond 2000. The Review demonstrates the clear and continuing commitment by the ISTC Parties to the goals of the Center, and focused on topics for increasing international participation in Center projects and activities.

The Governing Board extended its invitation to the Republic of Armenia to participate on the Governing Board through its next meeting, and expressed its appreciation for its valued efforts on behalf of the ISTC.

The ISTC Party delegations were honored to be received at a reception hosted by the Ambassador of France to the Russian Federation, His Excellency Claude Blanchemaison, at the Embassy in central Moscow. The event recognized the contribution to the ISTC of its former Executive Director, Dr. Alain GERARD.

The Governing Board agreed to hold its 24th meeting in Moscow during the week beginning 12 March 2001.