The International Symposium of the Sino-Portuguese Joint Laboratory Project, held on June 8, 2024, marked a significant milestone in scientific collaboration between China and Portugal. Hosted by the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, the symposium brought together esteemed leaders and representatives from both countries to celebrate and reinforce the partnership.
The first Sino-Portugal Joint Laboratory for Marine and Environmental Sciencesis the result of an agreement for China-Portugal cooperation in the areas of marine and environmental sciences between the Institute of Science and Environment of the University of Saint Joseph (ISE-USJ), the Centre of Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry of Universidade Católica Portuguesa (CBQF-UCP), the Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (IPMA), and the Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IOCAS). This project aims to establish a stable system of mutual scientific visits and exchanges, training, research development, sharing of research facilities and equipment, and organization of scientific and innovation events, fostering the consolidation of a comprehensive Sino-Portuguese marine and environmental science and technology platform.
Isabel Capeloa Gil, Rector of Universidade Católica Portuguesa, highlighted the creation of this laboratory within the context of the university's mission, stating that "part of our mission has always been to develop science for the good of humanity."
Isabel Braga da Cruz, Pro-Rector of Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto, emphasized the commitment to the partnership, reiterating that "the interdisciplinary environment on the Porto campus fosters collaborations with strong industry connections, like the one we are marking today. I am certain that this project and this collaboration will yield fruitful results."
Zhang Yaping, Vice President of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), shared his optimism, stating, "there is remarkable potential in these collaborations. I believe in the process of building a better and stronger relationship between the two countries in the future. Science and technology should play an even bigger role."
Wang Fan, Director of the Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IOCAS), highlighted the strategic focus of the joint laboratory, emphasizing its alignment with marine and environmental science strategies. "The joint laboratory is oriented to meet strategies in the field of marine science and environment, aiming to benefit the marine industry in China and Portugal and extend to international frontiers," Wang stated.
Stephen Morgan, Rector of the University of Saint Joseph, hailed the collaboration as "a huge achievement," anticipating "scientific results of enormous value" from the partnership.
Maria Ana Martins, board member of the Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera, stated that "the next step is to share knowledge and experience so we can take this collaboration even further."
Paula Castro, Director of the Faculty of Biotechnology at Universidade Católica Portuguesa - Porto, considered the development of this partnership a significant step in the right direction, stating that “creating opportunities to expand our activities and engage with Chinese institutions is an integral part of our international strategy."
Manuela Pintado, Director of the Centre of Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry at Universidade Católica Portuguesa, highlighted the collaborative nature of the achievements, ensuring that "we are celebrating a very important accomplishment where collaboration is the main word. With over 95 ongoing projects, CBQF is generating many publications, but more importantly, it is generating a lot of impact."
The International Symposium of the Sino-Portuguese Joint Laboratory Project demonstrated the strength and potential of international scientific collaboration, marking a promising beginning for future projects
