The Islamic world has a rich scientific tradition but in more recent times has fallen behind. In 2005, 17 Arab speaking countries put together produced fewer scientific papers than Harvard University. This will all change with the commitment - both financial and ideological - to a new wave of scientific endeavour.

A lot of the investment is coming from the oil-rich states. They see the need to diversify their economy and it would appear that science and technology is a route they have chosen. It is refreshing to see countries built on oil investing so heavily in research into alternative energies. And it is not just the oil-rich countries. Turkey, Egypt, Iran and Pakistan are all showing strong commitment.