Research and innovation are a driving force of the Cypriot economy and the country's ecosystem has been significantly strengthened, Chief Scientist of the Republic of Cyprus and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), Demetris Skourides has said.
He was speaking at a press conference this week that took place on the occasion of the completion of two years since the assumption of his duties as Chief Scientist and in view of the upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union by the Republic of Cyprus, in 2026.
As noted in a relevant press release, in his speech, Skourides highlighted success rates of the ecosystem which is now at 25th place in the Global Innovation Index, as well as the size of the ecosystem of innovative companies which went up by five places, according to Startup Blink.
"Our goal is for Cyprus to develop into a dynamic and competitive economy, driven by research, scientific excellence, innovation, technological development and entrepreneurship. Our actions and policies are focused in this direction," he said.
Referring to the RIF research programmes he noted that they had a significant impact on society and the economy.
Skourides referred among others to the RIF investments in strategic infrastructures, totaling €25 million.
"Cyprus' research and innovation ecosystem has become strong and resilient," he stressed noting that it offers measurable excellence and achieves success at the European level in attracting competitive funding.
The press release says that Artificial Intelligence is a strategic national priority under the guidance of Skourides, with the aim of modernising the national AI strategy, with an emphasis on a people-centred approach that ensures the responsible and ethical use of technology.
It is noted that Skourides presides over the ten-member Task Force Committee, which will prepare and implement the new Artificial Intelligence strategy, strengthening Cyprus' position as a regional hub of innovation and technological development, the press release says.
The event was also attended by leading Cypriot researchers, whose work and infrastructures have been supported by the RIF. The researchers gave practical examples of the impact of national research programmes, the results that have been achieved as well as the wider contribution of Cyprus to regional and international innovation, the press release concludes.
(Source: CNA)
