Arab Expat Scientists Network Efforts Are Paying off, Network Head Says

Doha, October 22 (QNA) - All Efforts exerted over the course of the past seven years are now paying off for The Arab Expatriate Scientists (AES) network which is currently achieving tangible successes, AES Director Dr. Nabeel Al-Salem has said. The AES network, launched seven years ago by HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), is currently embracing 5,000 Expat Arab scientists. Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the sidelines of the Joint QF Annual Research Forum (ARF) and Arab Expatriate Scientists Network (AES) Symposium that kicked off yesterday, Al Salem said that the AES initiative, originally an idea initiated during meets and conventions, has now grew to contribute to the appearance of research outlets and institutes across Qatar and playing a pivotal role in QF's scientific system. Talking of the network's future endeavors, Al Salem said efforts are being underway to extend the network's capacity via integrating the Arab Expat Scientists with their fellow Scientists back home. He stressed the Arab governments' role in supporting their scientists and making all needs available for them to pursue their scientific career. In that vein, Al Salem emphasized Qatar's making a headway attracting expat scientists, and being a future role model for the entire region. He said Qatar is one of the leading countries with generous investment in the field of science and research. It allocates 2.8% of its GDP on government-funded research - the highest research investment of any country of the world. Al Salem pointed out that Qatar is being on the right path having all factors needed for scientific development; strong wills, financial support and world renowned universities. In addition, to having a clear vision that was culminated in the launch of the national scientific research strategy (QNRS) on Sunday aiming to make the country a center of research and development. (QNA)