In times of increasing pressures on international cooperation, science diplomacy has come into the spotlight as a tool for engagement across borders. In particular, Research and Technology Infrastructures can play an important role in building trust and fostering brain circulation. One of the most prominent global examples of science diplomacy is the Synchrotron-light for Experimental Science and Applications in the Middle East (SESAME) in Jordan, whose current members are Cyprus, Egypt, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Israel, Jordan, Pakistan, Palestine, and Türkiye.
Against the background of the recently adopted European Strategy on Research and Technology Infrastructures, the Pact for the Mediterranean, and the European Union Framework for Science Diplomacy, the European Commission in cooperation with SESAME and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), is organising on 28th October 2026 at SESAME in Jordan a Symposium on the role of research and technology infrastructures in science diplomacy.
Scientists, diplomats and other stakeholders from the region and beyond will discuss the importance of science diplomacy in a fragmented world, the role of research and technology infrastructures as instruments of international cooperation and peace building as well as promoters of competitiveness. There will be a focus on young researchers providing examples of their research at SESAME and on-site participants will have an opportunity to visit SESAME’s facilities. Finally the symposium will also be a good opportunity to look at the future of SESAME itself.
Participation in the symposium is free of charge, but prior registration is required. The event will be web-streamed for those interested in following the discussions from abroad. The conference language is English.
Here the link for further info and for the registration.
