Advancing science diplomacy and technological cooperation at SESAME in Jordan
Allan, Jordan, 28 October 2026. The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) joined the European Commission, UNESCO and SESAME for a symposium on the role of research and technology infrastructures in science diplomacy. Hosted at SESAME, a landmark example of scientific cooperation across political and geographical boundaries, the Symposium brought together scientists, diplomats and policymakers to explore how shared research infrastructures can build trust, foster innovation and strengthen regional cooperation.
The symposium featured high-level contributions from Princess Sumaya bint El Hassan, President of the Royal Scientific Society; Azmi Mahafzah, Jordan’s Minister of Education; and Maria Cristina Russo, Deputy Director-General at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation.
In her opening video address, UfM Deputy Secretary General Petra Kežman emphasised the importance of connecting scientific capabilities across the Mediterranean: “The Mediterranean does not lack excellent talent, infrastructures or institutions. What we sometimes lack is the ability to connect our best efforts, and make their collective impact greater.”
The UfM also presented key outcomes of the UfM Higher Education and Research Week, held in Barcelona on 5–7 October, highlighting discussions on the proposed Mediterranean Science Diplomacy Centre, envisaged under the EU Pact for the Mediterranean. The initiative aims to strengthen the links between science and diplomacy and create new opportunities for regional scientific cooperation.
Throughout the day, discussions addressed science diplomacy in an increasingly fragmented international context, the role of research infrastructures in building trust and supporting peaceful cooperation, and their potential to foster technological innovation and competitiveness. Young researchers also showcased scientific work carried out at SESAME, while dedicated sessions examined emerging technology ecosystems.
UfM Research and Innovation Lead Giuseppe Provenzano moderated a session on research and technology infrastructures as drivers of competitiveness. Discussions focused on bridging the gap between scientific excellence and economic impact, strengthening links with industry and investment, and expanding access to advanced technologies through international partnerships.
The symposium also explored SESAME’s potential to broaden scientific partnerships across the Mediterranean, Africa and the Gulf, reaffirming the role of science diplomacy in building trust, advancing innovation and translating regional cooperation into concrete opportunities.
