President Şeker Attended Indonesia S-20 Summit Meeting
TÜBA President Prof. Dr. Muzaffer Şeker attended the S-20 Summit meeting attended by the science academies of the G-20 countries.
In addition to the Turkish Academy of Sciences; Australian Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Académie des Sciences , Leopoldina , Association of German Academies of Sciences and Humanities, Indian National Academy of Sciences, Indian Social Sciences Research Council, Indonesian Academy of Sciences, Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei , Japan Science Council, Sherpa of Science20, Korean Academy of Science and Technology, Republic of Korea National Academy of Sciences, South African Academy of Sciences, United Kingdom: Royal Society and British Academy representatives attended.
Speaking at the meeting, TÜBA President Prof. Şeker emphasized that TÜBA acts with the responsibility of being the national science academy of Turkey. He said that scientific meetings held in thematic areas and publications prepared with a multidisciplinary perspective are the main activities of TÜBA working groups. Şeker; “Studies on Turkey's strategic areas; Turkey and the world's leading scientists contribute to the multidisciplinary work of the working groups, while being a reference source for those concerned and related institutions.” said.
In every global crisis, the seeking for a new system comes to the fore.
Focusing on the pandemic process, economic crisis, environment and education, President Şeker continued as follows: “We are aware of the importance of Science 20 and we continue to support and contribute to all studies related to Science 20. The most important difference of the COVID-19 pandemic from previous pandemics was the multiplier effect of the speed of transportation and communication in the spread of the pandemic and the implementation of the measures taken. The reflections of the social change created by the global epidemic should be read well when a healthy analysis of the past pandemic periods is made and their differences and impact areas are evaluated. Determining the post-pandemic period strategies based on historical evaluation will make it possible to carry out the normalization process in a healthier way. In almost every global crisis, whether environmental or economic, the search for a new system comes to the fore. These efforts cover a wide area from economic mentality to institutional structure. The main cause of natural and environmental disasters seems to be the result of the economic growth and development paths followed in modern times, especially in the last two centuries. In this context, we should strive to develop and expand a common technical infrastructure that will enable everyone to access education. In this way, we think that both equality of opportunity in education can be achieved and solutions can be found for the reasons that trigger information asymmetry.” said.
A more livable Earth and the future depend on the collaboration of scientists.
Expressing that preserving the ecological balance is of special importance for the protection and maintenance of the natural life on the planet we live in, Şeker emphasized the necessity of raising awareness of the necessity of combating exploitation and unjust gains, as well as preventing environmental destruction and pollution.
Prof. Dr. Şeker continued as follows: “The environmental problems that emerged as a result of the unlimited production approach combined with the desire for rapid growth and the greed for excessive profits have become more evident recently. In order to solve the problems, studies are carried out for responsible production and consumption mechanisms, especially the concept of sustainable development. We think that developed countries should be more generous in supporting the health systems of underdeveloped and developing countries. Because the continuation of the pandemic even in one country poses a threat to the whole world. Preservation of ecological balance is of special importance for the protection and maintenance of natural life on the planet we live in. The irresponsible use of resources based on the desire to earn more and consume more is rapidly taking the world to a point of no return. Necessary infrastructure works should be started as soon as possible to ensure food supply security. Governments as well as the private sector should provide the necessary support. In order to increase the motivation of the private sector, public incentives and corporate social responsibility activities can be increased. A more livable world and future depend on the cooperation of us scientists. I think that such academic studies within the framework of science diplomacy improve these collaborations.”
At the meeting, TÜBA Principal Member, Asian Academy of Sciences and Societies Association ( The Association of Academies and President of Societies of Sciences in Asia (AASSA) and METU International Relations Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Ahmet Nuri Yurdusev also took part. In his speech, Yurdusev said, “Only global problems such as climate change and COVID-19 can be answered at a global level, and this requires international cooperation. It is necessary to ensure the mobilization of both developed and developing countries for an overall determined cooperation . This is only possible with easy, equal and fair access to opportunities and resources.”
