(a) recognition of the equality of all Member States in STI; (b) equitable opportunities for participation by all Member States and shared benefit in joint STI initiatives across the Region; (c) efficiency in the deployment of resources in STI and the avoidance of unnecessary duplication of efforts; (d) promotion of gender equity in all areas of science, technology and innovation; (e) peaceful application of science, technology and innovation in accordance with international norms; (f) commitment to the best ethical and highest safety standards in the conduct of scientific research and technological development. ARTICLE4 AREAS OF COOPERATION Member States commit themselves to cooperate in science, technology and innovation under this Protocol in the following areas: (a) implementation of the RISDP and the ASTCPA and other STI programmes agreed upon at regional and international forums; (b) investment in human capital development through improved policy and institutional conditions; (c) intensifiCation of efforts to attract and retain scientifiC human resource capacity in the Region for today's knowledge-based science and technology-driven economies; (d) promotion of gender equity and access to STIeducation; (e) forging strong partnerships with the African Diaspora with a view to advancing the scientific and technological development of the Region; (f) establishment of mechanisms to mobilize the skills and expertise in the African Diaspora with a view to enhancing the scientifiC and technological development of the Continent; (g) ensurance of sustainability in existing and development of new centres of excellence; 6