773 



In this formulation, the primary task of the OECD 

 would be to act as the means for stiir.ulating governments to 

 consider enhanced possibilities for international cooperation 

 in science and technology, and to ease the way for development 

 of specific programmes. It would undertake no operational 

 programmes of its ov;n, and avoid maintaining substantial 

 involvement v/ith programmes once launched. Participating 

 governm.ents must hear the full responsibility for supporting 

 programmes once they have been initiated. j 



Conclusion 



The case for re-examining the scope and opportunities 

 for international scientific and technological cooperation among 

 OECD countries seems a good one in the changed circumstances in 

 which all nations find themselves. The OECD can play a critical 

 catalytic and forcing role in stimulating both that re- 

 examination, and the action that may follow it. 



The .justification for increased cooperation is 

 primarily economic. However, the political importance to relations 

 among OECD countries can be substantial. Increased cooperation 

 and recognition of common goals can be a significant counterweight 

 to tendencies toward nationalism and weakening solidarity among 

 OECD countries. 



