- CNRST and CSIC signed a Framework Agreement on April 30, 2024, in Rabat to enhance scientific research collaboration.
- The agreement aims to promote, develop, and valorize scientific research between Morocco and Spain.
- Spanish delegation visited various CNRST divisions and the International University of Rabat.
To strengthen bilateral relations in common interest areas, the Centre National pour la Recherche Scientifique et Technique (CNRST) of Morocco and the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) of Spain signed a Framework Agreement on April 30, 2024, in Rabat. This agreement focuses on promoting, developing, and valorizing scientific research in both countries. Signed by Prof. Jamila EL ALAMI, Director of CNRST, and Dr. Eloísa DEL PINO MATUTE, President of CSIC, the event was attended by key figures including Mr. Francisco Javier MORENO FUENTES, Vice-President in charge of international relations, Ms. Claudia Cárdenas ROSARIO, CSIC legal advisor, and Mr. José María DAVO CABRA, cultural and scientific advisor at the Spanish Embassy in Morocco. This collaboration reflects the mutual commitment of both institutions to strengthen their strategic partnership through numerous fruitful cooperation projects.
Significance of the agreement
The agreement between CNRST and CSIC marks a pivotal step in enhancing scientific cooperation between Morocco and Spain. Prof. EL ALAMI highlighted the significant opportunities this bilateral cooperation presents to the scientific communities of both countries. Spain ranks as the third country in terms of scientific collaboration with Morocco for the period 2018-2023. This partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both institutions to foster innovation and advance scientific research, contributing to the development and application of new knowledge.
Visit to CNRST and International University of Rabat
Following the signing ceremony, the Spanish delegation toured various CNRST divisions, including the Moroccan Institute for Scientific and Technical Information (IMIST), HPC-MARWAN, Technical Support Units for Scientific Research (UATRS), and the National Institute of Geophysics (ING). In the afternoon, the delegation visited the International University of Rabat, where they were received by Prof. Abdelhafid Debbarh, Advisor and Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Jamal Boukouray, Director of International Relations and Partnerships, and Prof. Mohsine Bouya, General Director of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (Tech Center). These visits underscored the collaborative spirit and the shared vision of fostering scientific excellence and innovation through strong institutional partnerships.
About CNRST
The National Centre for Scientific and Technical Research (CNRST) serves as Morocco’s leading national operator dedicated to the advancement and appreciation of scientific and technical research. Its missions align with the latest directives assigned to it, encompassing a variety of responsibilities. The CNRST is tasked with the execution of research and technological development programs in accordance with government-dictated choices and priorities. It plays a pivotal role in the dissemination of scientific and technical information, facilitating the publication of research findings and conducting technological surveillance.
Furthermore, the CNRST aids in the reinforcement of the national research infrastructure, offering services that benefit research operators and contributing to the commercialisation and dissemination of research outcomes. It also engages in the formation of collaborative agreements and contracts with both public and private research entities, fostering partnerships that enhance research activities and services.
The CNRST strives to create synergies among various research teams focusing on priority subjects, thereby establishing networks and competence poles that drive innovation. Additionally, it is responsible for the evaluation and ongoing monitoring of all research and service activities, ensuring quality and effectiveness in the pursuit of scientific and technical progress.
