Taking the floor on the second and last day of the meeting, under the theme “Current development challenges: the role of science, technology and innovation”, René Castillo said that emerging technologies can and should provide solutions for sustainable development. He described them as a key factor for a sustainable and resilient recovery ahead of present international crises, as a planning tool, and from this analysis to generate relevant social, economic and environmental measures.

The diplomat encouraged increased research and development through cooperation among experts, to join efforts in technology transfer through partnerships, as well as to promote the environmentally friendly use of resources and digitize value chains.

He called for attention to be paid to innovation in science and technology, to address issues with solid policy responses and, as an international community, to promote the closing of gaps in coverage and connectivity.

René Castillo called for reducing digital illiteracy by working to generate access to technology and connectivity and create the capacities to take advantage of them.

He also called for the promotion of greater participation and inclusion of women in science, in addition to encouraging scientific and technological vocations from childhood, adolescence and youth for their fulfillment.

The strengthening of access to technology is also necessary for a more ambitious environmental action, said the vice-minister.

He considered the technology facilitation mechanism to be decisive to achieve the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also urged to strengthen International Cooperation to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks related to the growth of financial technologies, including expanding access to financial services and remittance transfer systems.

“We must work together to ensure that all communities, including the most marginalized, can benefit from these advances,” he said.

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