Ireland signs science and tech MoU with Chinese govt

27 Mar 2012

Richard Bruton, TD, Ireland's Minister for Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation

Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation, Richard Bruton, TD, has just signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Ireland-China science and innovation co-operation with Wan Gang, the Minister of Science and Technology in the People’s Republic of China.

The announcement was made in Beijing during a seven-day trade and investment mission to China organised by Enterprise Ireland.

The memorandum sets out the objectives and modes of co-operation on science and innovation between the two countries.

Collaborative activities between the two departments will include the exchange of scientific and technological information and data, as well as the exchange of scientists, researchers, technicians and trainees for visits.

The MoU also allows for study tours and advanced studies, the organisation of bilateral scientific and technical meetings and joint research on projects of mutual interest to both economies.

On the basis of this MoU, both departments will finalise arrangements to begin co-operative activities this year.

“Ireland and China have participated in a number of research partnerships over the past decade but through the signature of this memorandum of understanding we look forward to more and more linkages between Irish research groups and innovative companies with counterparts in China,” said Bruton today in Beijing.

“By combining expertise in specific areas such as life sciences, groups from both countries can find solutions to problems or discover new techniques to improve our lives and help create jobs,” added Bruton.

Carmel Doyle was a long-time reporter with Silicon Republic

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