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In this pamphlet, GEO Grid is introduced as a tool to utilise various kinds of information on the earth like satellite images. In this chapter are indicated measures and framework construction for the overseas promotion.
What strategy is needed to make GEO Grid to be recognised and harnessed widely abroad? Let us refer to a part of the management policy established by the AIST, prime mover of this programme. It reads "AIST will work toward a sustainable society by taking a leadership role in industrial technology innovations in Japan. " In addition, AIST decided to encourage international deployment, especially by relating entities in Asia (AIST Management Policy and Research Strategy 2006). It is on this basis that we have initiated our actions in Asia.
Science and Technology Diplomacy through CCOP
When something should be appealed on international stage, the task becomes easier if it has impact such as implication to international policy or construction of mechanism which is useful to every country. And in order to realize intended easiness the issue should be brought to a level as high as possible. Fortunately GEO Grid finds a strong advocate. It is a Bangkok-stationed international organisation CCOP (Coordinating Committee for Geoscience Programmes in East and Southeast Asia).
Japan is a Member Country of CCOP. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs serves as permanent representative and AIST as deputy permanent representative of the nation. It is of paramount importance that CCOP is placed as an institution for science and technology diplomacy. It is reminded that all of the international cooperation cannot be regarded diplomatic but cooperation with CCOP is approved to be of the diplomacy. According to this position, our research products can be brought to higher levels if channels through CCOP are used appropriately. It is envisaged that cooperation with CCOP can be a nucleus to disseminate GEO Grid in Asia.
Appeal to Asia
The idea to promote GEO Grid in Asia was already proposed and approved by the CCOP Steering Committee meeting. During the meeting, it was explained as follows.
– As GEO Grid manufactures virtual infrastructure and does not need expensive facilities such as super-computer, every Asian nation can participate in the programme in spite of the economical gap.
– GEO Grid contributes to bridge digital divide which is a serious issue in Asia.
– It is considered that GEO Grid development is a common challenge among nations to solve issues in Asia, while specific application resides within each nation's responsibility.
– GEO Grid ranges from resources, environment, hazard mitigation to geo-information. Thus it can be used to thrust sustainable development and human security in Asia (human security is a diplomatic pillar of Japan).
paroWay Forward of GEO Grid in Asia
Welcome responses to the presentation were observed at the CCOP Steering Committee meeting, which means the idea of GEO Grid was supported by the Member Countries. And the Member Countries present in the hall agreed to cooperate with this initiative. At the Steering Committee meeting they also approved a plan to send a liaison officer from AIST to the CCOP Technical Secretariat. GEO Grid promotion in Asia will be for the time being conducted by the officer who consults with AIST staff responsible for the initiative.
Specific plans were already proposed by Thailand and Vietnam. GEO Grid is expected to achieve good promotion and to show rapid dissemination in the Asian region.
Geoinformation Center
Satoshi Murao
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A Japanese delegate who makes a presentation on GEO Grid at the 48th CCOP Steering Committee meeting in November 2006. Rules and procedure of the meeting are in accordance with the UN system and the items agreed in the hall become international engagement. |
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