Statements

Scientists cannot walk alone. Our individual knowledge is inextricably bound to the knowledge in the entire scientific world. 

The language of science is a natural bridge for scientists with different backgrounds and experiences to communicate and understand each other. But for the bridge to be meaningful, it is also necessary to be fully committed to the endeavor. In this spirit the researchers from different cultures and nations in the ‘Twin Institutes,’ an innovative concept proposed by The Science Bridge, could make important contributions both in the sciences and in human relations. 

In these trying times, I really feel that science is one of those areas that gives humanity some hope for a better future. ‘The Science Bridge’ is needed more than ever.

During the ‘Islamic Golden Age’ (7th-14th century), the pursuit of knowledge by scientific collaboration was the driving force that united people of different faiths and cultures and led to major discoveries in all scientific fields that continue to serve humanity to this day. It later also gave birth to the ‘Age of Enlightenment’ in the West. By engaging different cultures and faiths within the ‘Twin Institutes’ concept, The Science Bridge initiative can pave the way to a new era in cross-cultural and international scientific collaboration. Once again, minds from across the world will have the opportunity to act as a united force to achieve breakthrough discoveries in the basic and applied sciences. I thus strongly support this noble initiative and am ready and willing to help to the best of my ability.

I fully endorse your efforts with ‘The Science Bridge’ initiative. I wish you all the success in the world. 

The development of individual contacts and linkages between Muslim and Western researchers is an excellent idea. Congratulations on this important initiative.

Science is an international enterprise, and there is no better way to increase understanding and friendship between the Muslim world and the West then through science. The idea of two research institutes, one in a Muslim country and the other in the West, each teaming with scientists from all over the world, is splendid. I am pleased to give this initiative my most enthusiastic endorsement.

I feel that in a time where religious fundamentalism is growing both in the East and in the West, and where there is a danger that alternative beliefs and non-conformist philosophies are increasingly suppressed, science can be a neutral basis for communication and understanding. I strongly support The Science Bridge initiative, it promotes such understanding which is direly needed because the non-religious nature of science and its universal benefits allow everybody to participate. 

Science and technology cooperation between cultures is a win-win activity. It reached its height during the golden age of Islamic civilization. I applaud the effort of The Science Bridge in reviving scientific collaboration.

It is my strong belief that collaborative scientific research provides an ideal environment where people having a common goal, such as eradication of human diseases, form inter-personal relationships which are a prerequisite to foster respect for each other. If we could scale-up such personal relationships between people from different origins in the ‘Twin Institutes’ as outlined by ‘The Science Bridge’ initiative, I am most confident that we will not only continue to do great science but also will bring people from East and West close together for trust- and peace-building.