Acknowledging that science transcends political borders, enhancing cooperation and acting as a catalyst for consolidating stability in South East Europe, the ministers commit to strengthening regional cooperation in science, technology and innovation.

UNESCO: Ministers of South East Europe to speak with one voice to further regional science agenda | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

The Science Policy Ministerial Meetings of South East Europe, a ministerial round table and an expert meeting, are jointly organized by the UNESCO Venice Office and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina on 22-23 November 2012 in order to discuss science priorities and potential regional strategies to strengthen Research, Technology and Innovation in SEE.

UNESCO: Bosnia and Herzegovina to host discussions towards the elaboration of a roadmap of science priorities in South East Europe | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

Since 2002, the UNESCO Venice Office has been active in providing financial support and elaborating initiatives to generate regional networking as a means of mobilizing science, technology and innovation (STI) for peace and sustainable development.

UNESCO: Bosnia and Herzegovina to host discussions towards the elaboration of a roadmap of science priorities in South East Europe | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

From where I sit in the technology-based economic development community, federal support for regional innovation programs is also vital for our economic recovery.

FORBES: How Will the Fiscal Cliff Impact Our Innovation Economy?