The term "international science relations" embraces "export" and "import" of knowledge,  leading to the acknowledgment of the State of Israel as a scientific powerhouse worldwide, and not only within the scientific community or the leading nations.

In order to implement this goal of "export of science", there is a need to instate as many Israeli diplomatic delegates around the world who will serve as "science counselors" (fully coordinated within the relevant ministries), in addition to their regular tasks.

From the large range of nations, a number of destinations has been selected according to definite criteria (as outlined below)

1. Former Soviet Union

These countries hold an invaluable and priceless accumulation of scientific R&D knowledge.

A large immigrant community in Israel of high quality, excellent scientists from these countries, proficient in the languages and well acquainted with the culture and scientific way of thinking proves to be an invaluable asset for R&D cooperation which facilitates mutual collaboration.

There is a significant political potential of the "Russian oriented block".
Israel has a natural Russian orientation, presently due to the extent of active speakers of the Russian language living in the country.  The value and social importance of effective and wide integration of Russian former SU immigrants in the Israeli arena of achievements goes without saying.  A prime example could be the scientific cooperation with the Republic of Kazakhstan, with their highly developed space industry and the Israeli space industry.

2. The countries of the Pacific Belt (South East Asia), with special emphasis on Singapore and Japan

There is an existing successful and fruitful cooperation with some countries in the area (India, China) – this cooperation which should be expanded.

South Korea is one of the countries on the "expanding path – trail" of Israel's international relations. These are the goals of the 2005 scientific foreign relations (KAHAM) program. 
Singapore and Japan are of great potential from which Israel could derive considerable economic benefits.

3. The countries of Central and Eastern Europe

Like the Asian countries mentioned above, there is a successful and fruitful cooperation with part of the countries in the area as well.

An increase in momentum and activity of the scientific level in these countries is expected, as experienced in former cases of new members of the EU. It would be preferable to have access as soon as possible, to create a desirable bond, or even dependence ?? with these countries.

---Examples are the CzechRepublic and Hungary, which have submitted a request to join the European Space Agency (ASA). Their space industry is virtually non-existent.  
Scientific cooperation is in the mutual interest of both Israel and these European countries.

4. States, Countries and Provinces of Federal Entities.

It seems that there are surprisingly huge untapped resources and budgets for R&D in the provinces and sub-states in the federal nations (like USA or Germany). The first budding collaboration agreements of this type have been signed. The political meaning, as relevant to each nation, is of strengthening direct bonds with large parts of the inhabitants, including population with rich scientific and economic infrastructure – a cooperation which could earn Israel benefits not only in the scientific area but also strengthen the trade and industry and yield economic benefits. Prime example: The State of Nordrhein-Westfalien (NRW), with solid budgets for cooperation paired with will and ability. Cooperation alleys, based on the same principle are also checked with the provinces of Canada (Quebec etc.)

Written by Mr. Ran Ichay, former Director of International Relations Division at MOST.