Scientists Call for Global Collaboration to Drive Sustainable Development

Uniting Science Across Borders for Sustainable Goals

At a seminar highlighting the 70th anniversary of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), leading researchers from the Chinese mainland and 14 countries and regions issued a rallying cry: it’s time for the global scientific community to band together against climate change, pollution, resource scarcity and food insecurity.

Hou Jianguo, president of the CAS, outlined how ecological conservation, life sciences, health research and energy technologies are reshaping the blueprint for sustainable development. He stressed that emerging technologies—from AI-driven data sharing to quantum innovations—must be deployed in open, collaborative networks if the world is to hit the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Looking ahead, the CAS plans to deepen international partnerships, expand talent exchanges and champion open data platforms for sustainability. “By harnessing artificial intelligence and shared research, we can fast-track solutions to today’s most critical challenges,” Hou said.

Reflecting on five decades of joint discoveries, Chennupati Jagadish, president of the Australian Academy of Science, praised the “transformative power” of inclusive science diplomacy, especially in quantum technologies and AI. “Science knows no borders,” he said, highlighting the momentum in Australia–Chinese mainland ties.

Sergei Chernyshev, vice president of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), pointed to future RAS–CAS collaborations as key levers for addressing global risks and boosting bilateral relations through shared innovation.

Peter Gluckman, president of the International Science Council (ISC), lauded the CAS for evolving into a global science leader—both in research output and in facilitating cross-continental partnerships that uphold the core values of scientific inquiry.

More than 60 participants—including heads of science academies and international organizations—joined the seminar, underlining a collective commitment to drive the SDGs through open, data-driven and people-centered initiatives.