Strengthening the international presence of Italian research, promoting innovation, and developing new scientific collaborations between Italy and other countries are the core goals of the cooperation agreement signed on November 5 in Reggio Calabria. The pact was signed by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and CNR President Andrea Lenzi during the Conference of Scientific, Space, and Agricultural Attachés.

The agreement aims to align the priorities and programs of both institutions to boost the internationalization of Italy’s research system. Key objectives include promoting Italian innovation in foreign markets, supporting Italian participation in international calls – particularly EU-funded projects – and providing training on shared interests.

“Italy aims to reach 700 billion euros in exports,” Minister Tajani noted. “The contribution of research, innovation, and science diplomacy will be increasingly vital to this goal. The CNR will serve as the spearhead of MAECI’s strengthened commitment to support Italian science, technology, and economic growth.”

“Renewing this agreement with MAECI is a unique and valuable opportunity,” stated President Lenzi. “It means supporting Italian researchers in international contexts, leveraging our expertise, and building collaborative networks with foreign partners. These initiatives will help create an integrated cooperation model to ensure greater competitiveness for the country.”

To implement these goals, a joint strategic committee consisting of four members – two from MAECI and two from CNR – will be established to define strategic objectives, priority geographic areas, and fields of intervention. Additionally, the agreement introduces an integrated professional collaboration model based on exchanging qualified human resources to further support the promotion of Italian research globally.