June 28, 2024 | 15:15
Science
Conferences
International cooperation
Armenian-German Day of Science: scientific event at YSU
A two-day scientific event was hosted at Yerevan State University to summarize recent scientific achievements of the Republic of Armenia and the Federal Republic of Germany, and to discuss opportunities for enhancing and expanding cooperative relations in research, technology, and innovation.
Rafayel Barkhudaryan, Vice-Rector for Scientific Affairs at YSU, delivered a speech at the official opening ceremony.
Regarding the significance of the event, Rafayel Barkhudaryan remarked: "This event marks a milestone in Armenian-German research and innovation cooperation. The presence of German guests is evidence of the strong collaborative ties between the two countries. The conference features engaging discussions that showcase the strengths of Armenian and German research institutions."
When discussing the topics covered in the reports, the vice-rector emphasized that the discussions focus on science and technology, highlighting innovative projects that show the potential parallels between the scientific communities of both countries.
"I am sure that this conference will be effective and inspiring. I want us to make the most of this opportunity to learn from each other, get acquainted with each other's experience and build a brighter future in the field of science," said the vice-rector for scientific affairs.
Sargis Hayotsyan, Chairman of the RA MESCS Higher Education and Science Committee, referring to the idea of organizing the event, said: "This is already the second scientific conference, which is held as a result of long-term collaborative work of the parties. The cooperation in research and technological development between Germany and Armenia is systematic due to the memorandum signed by sectoral ministries in 2011. Under this memorandum, we have conducted three major studies in 2013, 2016, and 2021. This is one of our important projects."
Sargis Hayotsyan referred to the frameworks of cooperation between the two countries, emphasizing that the main areas of mutual interest include information technologies, smart agriculture, and risk management.
"The research scope is becoming more comprehensive due to various mobility programs, which mainly include young researchers. The involvement of young researchers as a factor contributing to generational change in the research field is one of our priorities. Mobility programs are also very important for creating a better collaborative environment," pointed out S. Hayotsyan, emphasizing that the Republic of Armenia is establishing a new, higher-level partnership with the Federal Republic of Germany. He highlighted last week's ministerial visit to Germany, which included visits to many large institutions in higher education and research, along with significant meetings with leading experts in the field and students."
"I am impressed by this audience," Erik Tintrup, Chargé d'affaires at the Embassy of Germany in Armenia Erik Tintrup, began his speech with these words. Speaking about his first impressions from the event, he said: "As you know, I am a diplomat and I am used to meeting with diplomats. Our meetings are mostly limited to conversations. Now, when I see a large number of scientists and researchers, I understand that there are few talks here, instead, there are actions, implemented and ongoing programs. We implement many joint projects, and after two years of staying in this wonderful, very hospitable country, I can honestly say that particularly over the past two years, the partnership relations between the two countries, Armenia and Germany, have deepened even more."
In highlighting the mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, Erik Tintrup emphasized the pivotal role of frequent interactions among scientists in advancing scientific progress.
"Thus, it is necessary to get acquainted with each other's ideas and acquire new knowledge simultaneously. It's great to see experts willing to interact with each other. I should mention that the German government and the German embassy remain committed to providing continuous support to the development of various fields, including science," said the Chargé d'Affaires.
During the event, Florian Frank, representing the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, also delivered a speech, emphasizing the importance of bilateral cooperation across diverse fields between the two countries.
The speeches at the scientific event were followed by presentations of scientific reports covering various topics of interest. For two days, Armenian and German researchers and scientists presented compelling studies and observations about various fields of the scientific world. Representatives of leading Armenian and German universities delivered their reports.
The scientific event was organized through the joint initiative of YSU, RA MESCS Higher Education and Science Committee, and the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research.