Sir

I was heartened to see Nature's Editorial ”Time to unite Islam and science“ (Nature 422, 99; 200310.1038/422099a). Global events since 11 September 2001 have given a new sense of urgency to the Third World Academy of Science's efforts, over the past 20 years, to make science a core part of national policies in countries in these regions.

Although there is woefully inadequate investment in science and education in many predominantly Muslim countries, along with poor rates of economic development and a growing sense of despair and frustration, discussion should focus not on where to assign blame but on strategies for easing the tension and pointing to a better future.

Two aspects of the workshop held in Trieste in March (see Nature 422, 101; 200310.1038/422101a) that were described in your Editorial offer small but useful clues on how to move forward.

First, the workshop was jointly funded by the US National Academy of Sciences and, to a lesser extent, the Organization of Islamic Conference Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, and the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. This is an example of North–South scientific cooperation that could have a positive impact on future relations between these countries on issues related to science and development. More partnerships are needed between cultures that have too often chosen to emphasize their differences rather than their similarities.

Second, the workshop recommended that scientific communities in Muslim countries should increase their mutual cooperation by the creation of a network of science academies for scientific exchange, education and training, and by joint research programmes in areas of critical concern to Muslim countries. This is an example of South–South cooperation that holds the key for future success in efforts to advance science-based development.

North–South and, more important, South–South scientific cooperation could help forge alliances of mutual concern that will help to ease apprehension and distrust among nations.