It is within our grasp to invent a better future for humanity. Current conditions are not frozen for all time. We can work to ensure that science and technology are harnessed to address the needs of all, rather than add to the luxury of a few. Science and technology can help reduce, rather than exacerbate, the already enormous gaps. The economic success of South Korea is an example showing that the current trends can indeed be reversed.

In that spirit, it is absolutely necessary for developing nations to strengthen their S&T capacity. And they should do so soon, through their own focused efforts with help from their friends. Given the currently rapid rate of change in science and technology, there is no time to waste if the majority of humanity is not to suffer further marginalization.

We must, by our actions from this day forward, lay down the foundations for better tomorrows, when the benefits of science and technology will reach the traditionally detached, include the excluded, serve the unserved, and give hope to every human being on our planet that he or she too has a chance to live in dignity, comfort, health, and happiness. If we truly believe in our common humanity, we must aim for no less.

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