Connect Platform Links 10,000 Iranian Specialists Abroad at Iran Health 2025

Tehran, Iran - The Connect Forum at the 26th Iran Health Exhibition introduced a network of 10,000 Iranian specialists abroad, fostering knowledge transfer and collaboration with domestic science and technology hubs.

On June 10, 2025, during the 26th Iran Health Exhibition at the Tehran International Exhibition Center, a specialized session titled “Connect Forum” was held by the International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Development Organization under the Vice Presidency for Scientific, Technological and Knowledge-Based Economy Affairs. The forum aimed to strengthen ties between Iranian specialists abroad and domestic scientific and technological centers.

Seyed Ali Hosseini, Deputy of the International Interactions Center at the Vice Presidency and manager of the Connect platform, explained that the initiative was established in 2015 with the participation of Iranian specialists residing in North America and Europe. Its primary goal is to facilitate the transfer of knowledge and experience from abroad to Iran while creating effective connections among specialists, entrepreneurs, and investors both within and outside the country.

Hosseini emphasized viewing migration not merely as a threat but as an opportunity, focusing on leveraging the scientific potential of these individuals without necessarily aiming for their physical return. He outlined ongoing collaborations through activities such as lectures, post-doctoral programs, guest professorships, summer and winter schools, and joint industrial and scientific projects. Currently, the Connect platform has successfully linked with approximately 10,000 Iranian specialists abroad.

Addressing challenges, Hosseini noted that mandatory military service poses a significant barrier for some male elites wishing to return, and efforts are underway to resolve this through research and industrial project frameworks. He invited attendees to visit the Connect Pavilion in Hall 35 of the exhibition, where 18 knowledge-based companies founded by returned Iranians are showcased. These are part of around 400 active companies established under the Connect platform by Iranian specialists abroad, demonstrating the network’s immense potential in advancing technology and job creation in Iran. The exhibition concluded on June 10, 2025.