Italy is developing its first national science diplomacy strategy, placing research, innovation, and international collaboration at the center of its global engagement.
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the initiative on November 5, 2026, at the conference of scientific and space attachés and agricultural experts in Reggio Calabria. Ministries, universities, and research institutions will help shape a strategic framework designed to strengthen Italian science abroad.
Held November 3–5, the gathering focused on turning laboratory discoveries into market opportunities. Artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and high-performance computing featured prominently, alongside discussions of agriculture and innovative supply chains.
Italy’s overseas diplomatic network includes 67 specialists – 47 scientific attachés, 6 space attachés, and 14 agricultural experts. Their work helps connect researchers, institutions, and businesses, supporting joint projects and the international reach of Italian expertise.
A major development was the creation of a confederation bringing together associations of Italian researchers worldwide. Their presidents gathered in Italy for the first meeting of its kind organized by the Foreign Ministry, giving the country’s scientific diaspora a stronger collective voice.
Tajani also signed a cooperation agreement between the ministry and Italy’s National Research Council, known as CNR, to support new science diplomacy initiatives.
The emerging strategy aims to encourage cooperation, help research generate economic opportunities, support younger generations, and attract talent to Italy.
For Italian researchers working internationally, including those in the United States, the initiative places renewed emphasis on their contribution to connections between Italy and scientific communities abroad, while strengthening opportunities to exchange knowledge and develop future partnerships.
