Tajani launches the national strategy for scientific diplomacy. “ASI and the Calabria Region are collaborating with NASA on the Artemis project”

A form of diplomacy that takes research by the hand and leads it abroad. All thanks to Italian researchers around the world, who act as ambassadors for Italia’s scientific heritage abroad. “From Reggio Calabria, I wish to launch a key new initiative: the first National Strategy for Scientific Diplomacy,” said Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, speaking from the podium at the Conference of Scientific Attachés of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) in Reggio Calabria.

“From today,” he explained, “we are embarking on a process with ministries, universities and research bodies to draw up a strategic document aimed at strengthening Italian scientific diplomacy and scientific research abroad. We want to systematise and revitalise our efforts,” he added. In this context, Italian researchers around the world will play a key role, he said. “For the first time, we have brought together the presidents of the associations of Italian researchers abroad. I am delighted to announce that today, right here in Reggio Calabria, the Confederation of Associations of Italian Researchers Worldwide is being established.”

“Scientific diplomacy is now a cornerstone of growth diplomacy,” Tajani pointed out. “Science is a major driver of competitiveness and growth. Artificial intelligence, robotics and digitalisation are transforming industry. Italia must lead these processes. Through our scientific attachés, we are transforming our embassies into outposts for Italian research around the world. That is why I have decided to invest increasingly in this network, which we are expanding across all continents,” said Tajani.

The message is clear: ‘Our scientific diplomacy must place even greater emphasis on innovation and support for start-ups,’ emphasised the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. ‘Among the many young students here today, there are certainly plenty who possess an entrepreneurial spirit. Do not stifle this calling; if you feel it, take a risk, set up a start-up – we will do everything we can to help you realise your dream and ensure that your potential is put to good use for Italia. The game is being played on the export front. ‘Last year we reached a record figure of 643 billion. This year we are growing even faster: by around 6 per cent. The target,’ said the minister, ‘is 700 billion by 2027. Scientific diplomacy can make a very significant contribution.’

Tajani cited the example of Calabria. “The Italian Space Agency and the Calabria Region are working with NASA to build one of the communications antennas for the Artemis programme – which will take us to the Moon – in this region,” explained the Foreign Ministry official. “ The ultimate goal is to establish a major Calabrian space hub involving ASI, universities, research centres and industry. The University of Calabria’s participation in the European Space Agency’s Plasma Observatory space mission is another key achievement. A major project to explore the Earth’s magnetic shield. A source of pride for the entire region and for Italia,’ he concluded.