Ottawa – Science, technology and innovation (STI) play a pivotal role in our daily lives and improve our understanding of the universe. Global Affairs Canada signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Netherlands aimed at advancing STI, which will help address current global challenges and drive economic growth in both countries.
Building on a foundation of long-standing friendship and continued cooperation, this new MOU facilitates further collaboration between Canada and the Netherlands across a spectrum of STI initiatives in trade, investment and technology. Together, the 2 nations will reinforce existing partnerships and develop new ones to ensure better access to leading technologies and scientific advances.
Key areas outlined in the MOU include:
- collaborating across borders to address global challenges, such as climate change, food security and energy security
- promoting international collaboration in research projects, multilateral initiatives and joint scientific endeavours
- encouraging businesses to participate in STI initiatives, invest in research and contribute to addressing priority global challenges
- facilitating increased access to scientific research, technologies, markets and talents
This MOU promotes integrity and ethical research standards as well as diversity, inclusion and gender equality in research. It also supports efforts to integrate Canadian and Dutch stakeholders into global value-chain and research projects, strengthening broader Canada-European Union partnerships in STI.
“This MOU marks an exciting milestone in our relationship with the Netherlands. By working together more closely, we can leverage our respective strengths and expertise to tackle today’s global challenges and drive competitiveness to the advantage of both our nations.” – Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development