Date: 2014-07-14
Speaker: JACKSON LEE (democrat)
Chamber: H

Mr. Speaker. as a member of the Homeland Security Committee and former member of the Science. Space. and Technology Committee. I thank you for the opportunity to rise and speak in support of H.R. 5029. the "International Science and Technology Cooperation Act of 2014." I would like to thank the Chairman SMITH and Ranking EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of the Science. Space. and Technology House Committee for their work in advancing scientific cooperation around the globe that will benefit our domestic efforts to remain competitive and stong in a wide range of scientific fields. The United States federal science agencies are already effective in collaborating with international agencies and organizations on Science and Technology (S&T). but this bill would ensure that there is a group that coordinates and looks for new opportunities to get involved with our international partners. International cooperation in Science and Technology will help us answer scientific questions. and conduct elaborate research and development more quickly and efficiently. According to the International Science and Technology Strategy for the United States Department of Defense. the nonU.S. component of global research and development is more than 60 percent of the total global investment and is expected to continue to outpace the U.S. contribution. International collaboration would help us address global challenges on a broader scale and would give mutual enhancement of resources for both the United States and its partners. A few enhancements would allow access to unique research laboratories and facilities. risk reduction through multiple technical approaches to solve difficult technical problems. improve the warfighting capabilities of all involved. and potentially enhance interoperability during coalition operations. Our partnerships with Servicesponsored international offices in the U.K.. Japan. Singapore. and Australia. along with our partners in South America. Canada. New Zealand. and the United Kingdom in the Technical Cooperative Program. and the NATO Research and Technology Organization. give us a broad range of resources to work with across the world. We must continue to enhance and strengthen our foreign relationships in S&T to broker new research. identify mutually advantageous opportunities. and exchange information with potential partners regarding research interests. The International Space Station. which was built 16 years ago. and continues to operate under the collaboration of several countries around the world. is one of many portrayals that show how international relationships can produce profound research and discoveries. The European Council for Nuclear Research which conducts indepth studies on Earths fundamental matter and particles is another prime example of how foreign collaboration is beneficial and effective in producing elaborate research. The Center for Disease Controls World Health Organization is also one of the best illustrations of foreign collaboration used to advance the efforts in finding cures for diseases and conducting vital research and studies for global health concerns. Mr. Speaker. I ask that my colleagues join me in my support for H.R. 5029. and understand the importance of our international relationships involving Science and Technology. so that when successful. may lead to cooperative research. development and technology programs.