A much-needed science platform for China and Latin America

An aerial view of the Cauchari solar project in Argentina's Jujuy province, which was built by Chinese companies. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

July 1 marked the 100th year of the founding of the Communist Party of China. On the same day, thanks to Andean countries' collaborators in China and other countries, we (Andean Road Countries for Science and Technology) launched the long-awaited platform of the Journal of Latin American Science and Culture after more than two years of preparations with the valuable support from our academic, industrial and innovation partners from China and other regions of the world.

In his July 1 speech, the CPC Central Committee General Secretary Xi Jinping reiterated the importance of innovation and scientific research.

That's quite to the point. We believe that during these unprecedented times, we must continue to drive science, research and innovation forward more than ever.

Today, more than ever before, our scientific community needs inspiration and hope. And we hope the rest of the world will embark with us on this wonderful journey

The Andean Road Countries for Science and Technology and all its collaborators are committed to continuing the tradition of bringing together the scientific community across geographical and interdisciplinary boundaries to catalyze discovery, innovation and breakthroughs that will accelerate scientific research, collaboration and mutual learning.

In this spirit, the world should welcome the launch of the Journal of Latin American Science and Technology, a platform developed to extensively disseminate information and promote the exchange of knowledge and ideas as soon as the COVID-19 pandemic is brought under control across the world.

The world is waiting for new treatments and cure for not only COVID-19 but also other diseases threatening people in different countries.

The Andean Road Countries for Science and Technology, which was established in 2018, counts on the huge academic experiences of Chinese and foreign experts and advisers, an international team of editors, as well as an extensive network of collaborators that drive innovative ideas.

Our advisers, scholars, academics, researchers, scientists from various regions of the world are confident of crossing the geographical barriers that delay the discoveries and spread of information on scientific advances which can improve as well as save people's lives. During these difficult times, we have once again realized the important role science plays in improving and safeguarding people's lives.

On behalf of all the members of the Andean Road Countries for Science and Technology and all our collaborators who believe that scientific communication is necessary to establish harmony and peace, spread knowledge, and improve the well-being of the people, I congratulate the Communist Party of China on its 100th anniversary and at the same time thank all our Chinese and international collaborators for their huge contributions to this enormous achievement.

Today, more than ever before, our scientific community needs inspiration and hope. And we hope the rest of the world will embark with us on this wonderful journey.

The author is president of the Andean Road Countries for Science and Technology, Bolivia.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.