The Science Minister has articulated the United Kingdom’s hospitable approach to international science collaboration at the G7 Science and Technology Ministerial in Italy, where several new agreements were forged. This significant meeting served as the initial step in repositioning the UK’s connections with key allies and strengthening global scientific cooperation.
The G7 Ministerial witnessed Ministers from the world’s leading economies pledging substantial support for the science community in Ukraine, along with agreeing to enhance research security measures and strengthen collaboration with African nations on research and development to advance economic growth. The dedication to these initiatives underscores the UK government’s commitment to fortifying international partnerships and reinstating the country’s position as a dependable and influential global collaborator in science and technology.
In an address, Science Minister Vallance stressed the international nature of science and its reliance on trust, collaboration, and openness for success. He emphasized the importance of securing research and ensuring open access to data, while expressing solidarity and support for researchers facing threats. The commitments made at the G7 Ministerial were deemed crucial in harnessing the power of science and technology to promote a safer and prosperous world.
During discussions with his counterparts, Minister Vallance commended the remarkable work of international research infrastructures such as CERN and the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO), and indicated the UK’s intention to explore the possibility of hosting a new international research facility to drive innovation through global cooperation in science and technology.
Additionally, the Ministerial focused on the significance of biotechnology in shaping the future of the global economy, particularly in light of the increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence. G7 Ministers affirmed their commitment to promoting responsible innovation in biotechnology, including its convergence with AI. The UK also collaborated with other G7 members on computing capacity, exemplified by its recent access to European supercomputing resources through the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking.
The Science Minister also announced the UK’s support for the FAIR data accelerator pilot, a project aimed at making data more findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable, thereby facilitating the work of researchers. The global focus on research security was underscored as a crucial step in managing evolving risks to the research community, with the G7 being called upon to set the global agenda on this pertinent issue.
The strong and enduring scientific and technological links between the UK and Italy were highlighted, with collaborations through the European Space Agency, Horizon Europe, and the Square Kilometre Array space telescope project serving as prime examples. The UK’s Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and Italy’s Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) are commemorating the 40th anniversary of their partnership in pioneering neutron research.
In conclusion, the G7 Ministerial presented numerous agreements aimed at strengthening international scientific collaboration and accelerating investments in cutting-edge technologies with a view to creating the jobs of the future. The UK’s open stance towards international science and technology marks a significant leap forward in reaffirming the country’s position as a reliable and influential partner in the global scientific community.