The Arab Science and Technology Foundation (ASTF) has been established to promote science and technology in the Arab World by acting both as mediator and facilitator. ASTF mediates between the different Arab entities of business, investors and institutions related to Science & Technology inside and outside the Arab World. This Forum falls in line with ASTF efforts to bridge the gap between those who generate technology, and those who generate businesses and investments. The ultimate aim of this merger is to create strong, innovative, technology-based businesses able to compete worldwide. Such linkages will consequently support further technology research and development, thus creating a much-needed momentum able to drive Arab economies into the new millennium.

The Islamic Development Bank is an international financial institution established in pursuance of the Declaration of Intent issued by the Forum of Finance Ministers of Muslim Countries held in Jeddah in Dhul Qadah 1393H, corresponding to July 1973. The Inaugural Meeting of the Board of Governors took place in Rajab 1395H, corresponding to July 1975 and the Bank was formally opened on 15 Shawwal 1395H corresponding to 20 October 1975.