Chief Scientist promotes Cyprus-Japan research partnerships during Tokyo visit

Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides recently concluded a series of meetings in Tokyo, seeking to bolster cooperation between Cyprus and Japan in the fields of research and innovation.

According to an announcement released on Tuesday by the Research & Innovation Foundation (RIF), during his visit to Japan, Skourides engaged in key discussions and meetings, underscoring the government’s commitment to advancing international collaboration in research, innovation, and technology.

On April 9, Skourides met with Peter Fatelnig, Science, Innovation, Digital Technology, and European Policies Advisor at the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Japan.

Discussions revolved around Cyprus’ innovation ecosystem alignment with EU strategies, the role of EU-funded Centres of Excellence, and efforts to expedite commercial utilisation of innovative ideas and technologies.

The meeting also delved into the focus areas of EU-Japan corporate relations, including energy, biotechnology, and digital technology, along with insights on the recently announced EU Data ACT and addressing common implementation challenges.

Subsequently, on April 10, Skourides participated in the opening ceremony of the Sea Japan 2024 Trade Exhibition (Offshore & Port Tech) alongside other government officials from Cyprus, including the Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry, George Papanastasiou, and Cyprus’ Ambassador to Japan, Yiannis Michailidis.

Moreover, Cyprus showcased its maritime advantages and the reliability of its flag, underscoring its status as a developed maritime centre

Skourides also highlighted the country’s focus on maritime affairs within the framework of the Research and Innovation Strategy for the development of the research capabilities of the ecosystem.

He specifically mentioned the role played by one of the Centre of Excellence, the Cyprus Marine & Maritime Institute (CMMI), in applied research and the importance placed on developing green skills and products in maritime.

Additionally, Skourides commended the excellent work being done for the digital transformation of the Ministry of Shipping under the leadership of Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis, while also mentioning the innovative company Cellock, which plays a crucial role in project implementation.

Furthermore, meetings were held with various Japanese officials, including the Deputy Director of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), Nishijo Masaaki, and Odoi Satoshi (Director of International Science & Technology Science Policy Bureau).

Following consultation with Cyprus’ Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy, Nikodemos Damianou, Skourides presented the key aspects of Cyprus’ Digital Policy, confirming interest in cooperation in the fields of Research and Technology through the initiation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).