Closer biotechnology research links between Queensland and New Zealand were discussed by Queensland Premier Hon Peter Beattie and Minister of Research, Science and Technology Pete Hodgson yesterday.

Premier Beattie has been an active promoter of the Queensland Government's ten-year “bioindustries strategy”, launched in 1999, which aims to promote the state as a biotechnology hub. He strongly supports closer links with New Zealand.

Premier Beattie’s visit builds on a growing science relationship with Australia. In February this year, Deputy Prime Minister Jim Anderton and Australian Prime Minister John Howard agreed to promote closer science links. Since then officials have met and the following initiatives have been agreed:

 establishing a travel fund in New Zealand to build closer links between researchers from the two countries;
 encouraging New Zealand research organisations to be involved in the Australian Co-operative Research Centres Programme;
 increasing the exchange of scientific and policy information;
 jointly showcasing biotechnology opportunities internationally.

“One way New Zealand will increase its capacity for innovation is by strengthening the international links of our scientists and research institutions,” Mr Hodgson said. “Our links with Australia are particularly important and I am pleased that with Queensland they will be getting stronger.”

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