"Internationalization Without Output is Not Value-Creating": Iran Tech Parks Focus on Tech Diplomacy

Iranian science and technology park officials emphasized that internationalization must be a targeted, output-oriented mission to create real value, during the 5th empowerment course for tech park managers held at Pardis Technology Park (PTP). Discussions centered on technology diplomacy as a key driver for park development and global market access.

Aminreza Khalegian, Director General for International Affairs and Communications at PTP, stressed that international activities require specialized, network-based approaches. "Park headquarters are not the export arms of companies," he stated. "Their role is to create effective networks, facilitate connections, and link tech companies with global markets."

Khalegian emphasized that membership in international networks and associations must be purposeful and results-driven. "Symbolic presence in international structures, without practical achievement, cannot create value," he warned.

Introducing the concept of "technology diplomacy," Khalegian explained that technology can serve as a tool to strengthen diplomacy, while diplomacy in turn facilitates exports and market development for knowledge-based firms. He acknowledged challenges including high costs, sanctions, legal permissions, and the need for language proficiency and diplomatic protocol expertise. Proposed solutions included export training, utilizing professional brokers, and facilitating experience transfer from larger to smaller companies.

Mozhgan Yazdianpour, Head of International Scientific Cooperation at Isfahan Science & Technology Town, reinforced that technology development is impossible without global engagement. "Active participation in international networks facilitates access to new markets, capital attraction, and upgrading standards for tech companies," she said.

Highlighting the Town's membership in prestigious global bodies such as the International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP) and the Asian Science Park Association (ASPA), Yazdianpour noted that these interactions provide valuable opportunities for networking, defining joint projects, and strengthening the international standing of resident companies.

She stressed that knowledge-based companies must understand their global competitors and develop products according to market needs to survive in today's competitive environment. "Internationalization is not merely participating in events; it requires strategic planning, negotiation skills training, professional interaction, and targeted utilization of global innovation networks," she concluded.

The session underscored that the future of Iran's knowledge-based economy depends on smart networking, active technology diplomacy, and purposeful presence in global markets.