Xjenza Malta participated in a series of pivotal events organised by the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) on October 2nd and 3rd, 2024, in Cairo. Representing Malta as government stakeholders and the national focal point for the UfM Regional Platform in Research and Innovation, George Bugeja (Deputy Director), and Felipe Nalin Abdala (Executive in Policy and Strategy) of the Internationalization Unit, were actively engaged in discussions that are shaping the future of science diplomacy, research, and innovation in the Mediterranean.

The High-Level Meeting on Science Diplomacy, held on October 2, 2024, was a collaborative effort between the UfM, the League of Arab States (LAS), and the European Commission. This event gathered diplomats, scientists, and policymakers to explore how science, technology, and innovation can drive diplomatic dialogue and cooperation across the Mediterranean. Key topics included the link between science and cultural diplomacy, regional cooperation through initiatives like SESAME and PRIMA, and the need for a Euro-Mediterranean Science Diplomacy Hub. The meeting highlighted science diplomacy's critical role in building trust and tackling common challenges, promoting cooperation, shared innovation, and coordinated solutions across borders. Access the full outcome document, pictures, video, and the full recording of the Conference.

Following the High-Level Meeting on Science and diplomacy, on October 3, 2024, the 30th Meeting of the UfM Platform on Research and Innovation convened, bringing together the National Focal Points and high-level representatives, including UfM Secretary-General Nasser Kamel, the European Commission, and Jordan’s Higher Council for Science and Technology. Discussions centered on the implementation of UfM Roadmaps in health, renewable energy, and climate, with a focus on the platform's four key pillars: mapping and portfolio analysis, integration of actions into existing programmes, stakeholder communication, and Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) framework. A highlight of the meeting was the introduction of the new Euro-Mediterranean Hub for Research and Innovation website, a critical tool for advancing collaboration across the region.

Following the platform meeting, the inaugural Euro-Mediterranean Innovation Marketplace was launched. This initiative was born from an extensive mapping of projects funded under Horizon 2020, PRIMA, and ENI CBC programmes, and showcased innovative projects with substantial business and market potential. The marketplace provided a crucial forum for fostering collaboration and addressing the challenges of technology transfer and commercialization, supporting the UfM’s broader mission to drive sustainable innovation across the Mediterranean.

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For inquiries regarding Malta's involvement in the UfM Research and Innovation platform, please reach out to the designated representative, Sandrine Borg (Senior Executive - Internationalisation). 

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