ECO-TEX Exhibition and Technology Exchange Network: Iran’s Initiatives for Scientific and Technological Cooperation

Iran’s International Innovation District (IIID) hosted the Permanent Representatives Council of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), showcasing its innovation ecosystem and proposing the ECO-TEX technology exhibition to strengthen regional collaboration.

Iran’s International Innovation District (IIID) welcomed ambassadors and representatives from ECO member states during the Permanent Representatives Council (ECO CPR) meeting. The event highlighted Iran’s readiness to share its technological achievements and proposed creating the ECO-TEX exhibition to foster scientific and technological cooperation among member states.

Mehdi Safarinia, President of Pardis Technology Park (PTP), emphasized IIID’s 24-year track record as the largest technology hub in West Asia. He noted that supportive legislation has led to the establishment of over 10,000 knowledge-based companies in Iran, specializing in fields such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, ICT, and healthcare.

Safarinia also referenced Iran’s successful experiences with the D-8 Technology Transfer and Exchange Network (D-8 TTEN) and expressed readiness to extend similar collaborations to ECO countries. He proposed the ECO-TEX exhibition as a platform for technological exchange, akin to Iran’s INOTEX exhibition, with hopes of bringing innovators from across ECO member states together.

The meeting included discussions on joint technological projects, intellectual property training, and expanding educational programs in biotechnology and ICT. Safarinia reiterated IIID’s vision of becoming the largest technology park in West Asia, inviting Islamic and friendly nations to participate in its innovation ecosystem.

ECO Secretary General Asad Majid Khan expressed enthusiasm for the event, underscoring the potential of such initiatives to strengthen technological ties among Islamic countries. ECO ambassadors shared their perspectives on expanding bilateral and multilateral collaboration with IIID, including areas like artificial intelligence, financial support mechanisms, and youth education.

The meeting concluded with a presentation on IIID company achievements and a tour of an exhibition showcasing Iranian medical equipment.

Founded in 1984 by Iran, Turkey, and Pakistan, ECO expanded in 1992 to include Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, aiming to enhance regional trade and integrate member economies into global markets.