The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) advocates the internationalisation of Italian research and scientific diplomacy as fundamental instruments for the advancement of collaboration between Italy and the global community. At the core of MAECI’s initiatives lies the conviction that economic growth is contingent upon innovation and scientific research.
The Offices for Bilateral Scientific Cooperation and Space, Multilateral Scientific Cooperation and Intellectual Property are part of MAECI’s Directorate General for the Promotion of the Country System (DGSP). Bilateral scientific cooperation makes use of the network of Scientific Attachés located in some Embassies. In recent years, the scientific diplomacy sector has been strengthened with the aim of promoting the dissemination of Italian science and technology abroad.
Scientific Attachés are typically drawn from the ranks of researchers, with a significant proportion hailing from state and public bodies. Their primary objective is to advance and enhance Italian scientific research, with a particular focus on supporting companies operating in advanced technology sectors. In particular, they are responsible for:
- Planning and implementation of Executive Protocols for bilateral cooperation.
- Promotion and facilitation of cooperation agreements between universities and research bodies in the two countries.
- Promotion of the Italian scientific and technological system with reference to universities, institutes, bodies, laboratories and Furthermore, they collaborate with other research organisations to organise events.
- Dissemination of knowledge about the scientific system and science policy implemented by the country of accreditation in Italy.
- Promotion of exchanges between researchers from Italy and the country of accreditation, with the aim of increasing bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
The Office of the Scientific Attaché in Hanoi was established in 2016. Since June 2020, the role has been held by Prof. Marco Abbiati, a lecturer at Alma Mater – University of Bologna. In accordance with the country strategy defined by the Head of Mission, he oversees and facilitates the implementation of research projects between scientists from the two countries, promotes Italian excellence in the field of science, and fosters contacts between researchers and research bodies of the two countries. His actions are carried out in close collaboration with the sector of cultural, commercial, economic, and political relations, with the aim of providing effective diplomatic support. Furthermore, its activities are conducted in collaboration with the Consulate General of Italy in Ho Chi Minh City, the Agency for the Promotion Abroad and Internationalisation of Italian Enterprises, and the Italian-Vietnamese Chamber of Commerce. The local contacts of the Scientific Attaché include ministries, universities, academies, centres for technological innovation, research institutes, associations and foundations, enterprises, and all scientific and/or technological institutions.
The Scientific Attaché
Prof Marco Abbiati
tel. +84 24 38256256 extension 108
e-mail: hanoi.scienza@esteri.it