Science Malta and Italy’s Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale (OGS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration in research, innovation and scientific capacity building across the Mediterranean region.
The agreement was signed during a press event held at the Planetarium Hall at Esplora, followed by the official opening of the AMARE-MED 2026 Summer School, an Advanced School on Multispecies Modeling Approaches for Ecosystem-Based Marine Resource Management in the Mediterranean Sea, which is being hosted in Malta for its 2026 edition.
The MoU builds on an already established partnership between the two organizations through several European and Mediterranean initiatives, including JPI Oceans, the 5+5 Dialogue on Research, Innovation and Higher Education, BlueMissionMed, the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership, the ONE Water Alliance and Horizon Europe activities.
Minister for Justice, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima described the agreement as an important milestone in strengthening scientific ties between Malta and Italy. “I am pleased that this occasion centers on international scientific collaboration. It demonstrates how strong partnerships can create tangible opportunities for researchers, institutions and society alike”, said Minister Grima.
He also stated that, “This partnership is closely aligned with Malta’s National Research and Innovation Strategic Plan, which places strong emphasis on research excellence, internationalisation, talent development and the strengthening of our national research and innovation ecosystem. It also contributes directly to the ambitions outlined in Malta Vision 2050, where knowledge, innovation and human capital are recognized as essential drivers of long-term prosperity, resilience and sustainability”.
Prof. Nicola Casagli, President of the Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografiae di Geofisica Sperimentale (OGS) said, “The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding with Xxenza Malta marks an important step in strengthening scientific cooperation across the Mediterranean. Through this partnership, OGS and Xxenza Malta will promote joint research, capacity building, access to research infrastructures, and the development of new opportunities within European and international programs. Together, we are investing in knowledge, innovation, and the sustainable future of our shared sea.”
Science Malta CEO Silvio Scerri explained how the agreement formalises a relationship that has already delivered significant value through shared projects and common objectives. “International cooperation is essential to scientific excellence. This partnership strengthens research capacity, broadens access to expertise and infrastructure, and creates new opportunities for participation in European and international programs,” he remarked.
Dr Maria Azzopardi, Director of Science Malta’s Internationalization Unit, highlighted the importance of investing in researchers and fostering international networks. “At Science Malta, we strongly believe that investing in people is one of the most important investments we can make. Supporting researchers, particularly those at the early stages of their careers, is essential if we are to build the expertise, skills and leadership that will drive future scientific and technological advances”.
