Science diplomacy in action: UfM, EU, and LAS meet in Cairo to tackle challenges through R&I

3 October 2024, Cairo, Egypt – Officials from the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), European Commission, and the League of Arab States (LAS) met yesterday in Cairo to advance the role of science in foreign affairs under the High-level Meeting on Science Diplomacy.

In a region facing increasing cross-border challenges such as climate change, food and water security, and energy resources, science and innovation could play a significant role in bringing regional actors together. Participants discussed approaches to strengthen research infrastructures, mobility and training, and science advice for foreign policy.

Held at the LAS Secretariat, the meeting was attended by former President of the European Commission Romano Prodi, UfM Secretary General Nasser Kamel, his Deputy for Research and Innovation Joan Borrell, LAS Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, EU Deputy Director General of DG Research and Innovation Signe Ratso, along with various diplomats and directors of institutes.

Building on the 2023 Euro-Mediterranean Conference on Science Diplomacy, yesterday’s meeting marks the first tangible outcome of an agreement signed earlier this year between the UfM and LAS on research and innovation, supported by the European Commission.

UfM Secretary General Nasser Kamel highlighted the critical role of science in fostering dialogue and cooperation. “At a time when tensions are heightened, science—through its universal language—reminds us that dialogue remains possible. Science, technology, knowledge, and culture are not just bridges; they are catalysts for prosperity and sustainability across borders,” he stated.

UfM Deputy Secretary General Joan Borell added, “Research institutions can be critical drivers of this ‘just’ transition, transforming it from political aim to action on the ground, and helping us create the knowledge, skills, and awareness needed.”

Two days of research and innovation in Cairo

Besides science diplomacy, Cairo also hosted the 30th Meeting of the UfM Regional Platform on Research and Innovation, reflecting on the implementation of the UfM Ministerial Declaration on Research and Innovation (2022), and discussing possible tools to enhance engagement with Member States.

Subsequently, the European Commission organized, in collaboration with the UfM, the first EuroMed Innovation Marketplace 2024 to showcase EU-funded research and innovation projects in health, renewable energies, and climate change, and to explore collaboration opportunities among regional stakeholders.

Euro-Mediterranean Hub on R&I

The UfM is supporting the development of a scientific agenda in the region with renewed emphasis following the mandate received by its 43 Member States during the UfM Ministerial Conference on Research and Innovation (2022). It has been active in promoting training, research initiatives, and acting as a broker between different societal actors, including diplomats, ministries, international organizations, scientists, universities, and research centers. In 2024, it launched, with the European Commission, a Euro-Mediterranean Hub on R&I.

You can find the main outcome document of the event by clicking here.