Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs, Krzysztof Gawkowski, paid an official visit to the offices of the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), highlighting the importance of digital policy and innovation for Cyprus’ research ecosystem.
According to a statement from the Office of the Chief Scientist, the 15 January meeting took place in the context of Cyprus assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Gawkowski and the Polish delegation were received by the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology and Chairman of the RIF Board, Demetris Skourides.
The discussion focused on cutting-edge issues, including digital transition, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), as well as the strengthening of cooperation in the field of research. The two sides agreed to expand their cooperation in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, acknowledging shared challenges and development prospects.
Skourides presented the work and significant achievements of the RIF, highlighting the organisation’s strategic role in the development of the Cypriot economy and its contribution to strengthening the national research and innovation system. From his side, Gawkowski praised Cyprus’ strong potential in the technology sector, laying the groundwork for future joint initiatives between the two countries.
As part of the meeting, symbolic gifts were exchanged, bridging tradition with technology. Skourides presented the Polish Deputy Prime Minister with items of Cypriot craftsmanship and cultural heritage, created using digital tools and 3D printing. Their production was made possible through collaboration with the UNESCO Chair on Digital Cultural Heritage of the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT).
High-level delegations from both countries participated in the meeting.
From the RIF side, participants included Director General Theodoros Loukaidis, Vice Chairman of the Board Andreas Efstathiou and Board member Constantinos Kleovoulou. The Polish delegation included, among others, Poland’s Ambassador to Cyprus, Marek Szczepanowski, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Digital Affairs.
The meeting reaffirmed the strong ties between Cyprus and Poland, laying the foundations for closer cooperation in the fields of digital technology and scientific research.
(Source: CNA)
