Serpong - U.S. President Obama has reportedly endorsed the U.S.-Indonesia scientific cooperation in the field of technology research and development to the two countries' relations.

     Obama's support to scientific cooperation was conveyed by U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia Cameron R. Hume when delivering a personal message from President Obama on the importance of science technology research and development to US-Indonesian relations, a release from the US embassy said here on Wednesday.

     At a special program attended by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Chairman of Indonesian Academy of Sciences (AIPI) Sangkot Marzuki at the PUSPITEK campus, the Ambassador quoted President Obama as saying the global challenges should be dealt with through partnership based opun mutual interest and respect and on shared principles of justice and progress.

     Science and technology were critical to addressing many of the challenges being faced from climate change to protecting biodiversity.

     "Moreover, knowledge and innovation will be the basis of economic prosperity in the 21st century.  This is why the United States is taking steps to invest in science and technology at home, and why we are committed to science and technology as a key part of our global engagement," Obama was quoted as saying.

      Furthermore, Obama was reported to support on the importance of establishing a science envoys program and asking great American scientists like Bruce Alberts to visit countries and regions around the world and exploring possible areas of collaboration.

      "As you know, I spent several years in Indonesia as a boy, and your country still holds a special place in my heart. There is much that Indonesia and the United States can do together - from developing new sources of energy and adapting to climate change to combating infectious diseases and improving science and math education," he quoted Obama as saying.

      However, Obama recommended Indonesia for taking an active approach to science and technology partnership, and he also welcomed the support in finding ways to collaborate in areas of mutual interest to move from ideas to achievement.

-Antara, 21 January 2010-