A memorandum of cooperation was signed today by the Ministry of Defence, the Chief Scientist for Research and Innovation of the Republic of Cyprus and the Research and Innovation Foundation. The purpose of the memorandum is to define the framework for cooperation on issues of common interest.

Among other things, the memorandum provides for the utilization of the experience and know-how of RaIF in the process of announcing invitations for proposal submissions, which will be announced and financed by the Ministry of Defence, their evaluation through RaIF and the possibility of using its electronic platform.

In addition, joint information days will be held to promote the culture of research and innovation in the Armed Forces as well as joint programs to address security and defence issues.

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It is also envisaged that RaIF utilizes the specialized high-tech laboratories of the National Guard through their integration into the wider research and innovation ecosystem.

In the context of the signing of the memorandum, the Minister of Defence, Mr. Charalambos Petridis, stated that the Ministry is taking another decisive step for practical support of the research and innovation sector in defence and security issues in order to make the Republic of Cyprus competitive. “Through our actions, our ultimate goal is one, namely to further strengthen the operational capability of the National Guard and our deterrent power,” said the Minister.

On his part, the Chief Scientist for Research and Innovation, Dr. Nikolas Mastrogiannopoulos, welcomed the signing of the memorandum, noting that it marks the beginning of a new era and a partnership with an innovative dimension, which will connect the high level research and innovative web of the country. “Our common goal is to further strengthen the operational capability and the technological upgrade of the National Guard as well as to create and develop a dual-use industry in our country through a new development model aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of the Cypriot economy,” said Mr. Mastrogiannopoulos.

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