U.S.-SOVIET SUMMIT: Expansion of science ties expected

Abstract

President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev have four items on their agenda at their summit meeting in Moscow this week: arms control, regional conflicts, human rights, and U.S.-Soviet relations. They are unlikely to spend much time discussing science and technology. And yet, it appears that science and technology will play a significant role at the summit and in future U.S.-Soviet relations. This summit is likely to be heavier on symbolism and ceremony than on substantive agreements. Experts consider the symbolism important marking a more stable, normalized relationship after years of tension and hostility, and expressing the encouragement of U.S. leaders for reforms in Soviet society. However, to convey an atmosphere of progress in concrete ways, the two leaders are expected to announce expanded cooperation in scientific, cultural, and other areas. Already a week before the summit, Gorbachev told the Washington Post and Newsweek that he would ask ...