Highlights from the Meeting in Italy
From July 9 to 11, 2024, the G7 Science and Technology Ministers gathered in Bologna and Forlì, Italy. Their primary focus was on the importance of science, technology, innovation, and higher education in building a sustainable future. They emphasized the values of democracy, respect for international law, and the promotion of human rights, fairness, and freedom.
Key Outcomes of the Declaration
The ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Commissioner Iliana Ivanova made several important commitments:
- Supporting Ukraine: The G7 nations will help strengthen Ukraine’s research and innovation sectors. They plan to share expertise and best practices to aid in Ukraine’s sustainable reconstruction.
- Promoting Research Security and Integrity: Ensuring the safety and honesty of international research collaborations was a top priority. They reaffirmed the value of open science and the fair spread of scientific knowledge.
- Responsible AI in Science: The ministers acknowledged the need for a coherent approach to responsible AI in scientific research.
- Large Research Infrastructures: Recognizing the complexity of managing large research facilities, the G7 agreed to share experiences and best practices. They plan to start a dialogue among managers of these infrastructures across member countries.
- Emerging Technologies: The G7 emphasized the importance of cooperation in fields like artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and biotechnology.
Commissioner Iliana Ivanova’s Statement
Iliana Ivanova, the European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth, highlighted the need for stronger international collaboration. She said:
“To face our current challenges, we need to foster stronger collaboration among likeminded countries. This meeting reaffirmed our shared commitment to promote progress in research and innovation, aligned with the principles of openness, security, freedom and integrity. The European Commission stands firmly with our G7 partners in advancing these shared goals. Together, we are committed to harnessing the power of science and technology to create a more sustainable, secure and inclusive future for all.”
Italy’s Role and Future Plans
Italy, the current G7 chair, offered to include science, technology, and innovation in the 2025 Ukraine Recovery Conference. This move highlights the crucial role of research and innovation in rebuilding Ukraine’s economy sustainably.
Focus on Africa
A special session focused on boosting research and innovation cooperation with Africa. Key initiatives include:
- African Union-European Union Innovation Agenda
- Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA)
- European and Developing Countries Clinical Trial Partnership (EDCTP3)
- EU Flagship Programme Youth Mobility for Africa
Marine Ecosystems and Ocean Health
Responding to a suggestion from the EU, the G7 ministers emphasized the urgent need for more research on marine ecosystems and ocean health. This is crucial given the increasing interest in deep-sea resources and the potential impact of activities like mining.
G7 High-Level Conference on Ocean Health
Following the ministerial meeting, Commissioner Ivanova opened the G7 High Level Conference on Mediterranean and Atlantic Ocean Health and Coastal Resilience. Italian Minister for Universities and Research, Anna Maria Bernini, and Minister for Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, endorsed the Charter of the Mission Ocean and Waters, committing to actions aimed at restoring water bodies.
Closing Thoughts
The conference showcased international efforts to:
- Conserve, protect, and restore marine biodiversity.
- Enhance climate resilience.
- Mitigate the impacts of extreme weather and pollution on coastal communities.
These efforts align with the goals of the European Green Deal and demonstrate the G7’s commitment to using science and technology for global betterment.
