# Italy Launches National Strategy to Boost Global Scientific Diplomacy Foreign Minister Tajani unveils a new framework to integrate scientific research into national growth. - **Source:** [Il Sole 24 Ore – Italia](https://www.ilsole24ore.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-05 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/37dad5d7-6acb-459c-abfe-3c45b17c8303 ## New National Strategy Launched Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced Italy’s first National Strategy for Scientific Diplomacy during a conference in Reggio Calabria. This initiative aims to systematize and elevate Italian research abroad by fostering closer collaboration between ministries, universities, and research institutions. The strategy seeks to position science as a primary driver for national competitiveness. ## Confederation of Researchers Formed For the first time, the presidents of various Italian researcher associations worldwide have united to form a new confederation. This body will serve as a key partner in the government’s diplomatic efforts. These researchers act as ambassadors, bridging the gap between Italian scientific expertise and the global academic communities where they operate. ## Network of Scientific Experts Italy maintains a specialized network of sixty experts, including scientific and space attachés, operating across 30 embassies and 80 consulates. These professionals are scientists on loan to the diplomatic corps, enabling them to engage as peers with international scientific communities. Their work is central to promoting Italian technology, culture, and academic institutions. ## Economic Growth and Exports Scientific diplomacy is now a pillar of Italy’s growth strategy, directly supporting export goals. After reaching 643 billion euros in exports last year, the government targets 700 billion by 2027. Officials believe that integrating innovation and supporting start-ups will accelerate this growth, with an expected annual increase of approximately six percent. ## Focus on Emerging Technologies The strategy prioritizes high-growth sectors including artificial intelligence, robotics, and digitalization. Attachés are actively identifying international opportunities, such as the U.S. Genesis Mission for AI or German collaborations on green hydrogen. These efforts aim to transform embassies into active outposts for Italian industrial innovation and technological advancement on the global stage. ## Space Sector Strategic Projects Calabria is becoming a hub for space-related diplomacy, exemplified by the partnership between the Italian Space Agency, local universities, and NASA for the Artemis program. Additionally, the University of Calabria is participating in the European Space Agency’s Plasma Observatory mission. These projects demonstrate how regional research can contribute to major international scientific endeavors. ## Global Cooperation and Development Scientific cooperation is being aligned with the Mattei Plan, particularly in emerging countries where projects begin by addressing local institutional needs. Diplomats emphasize that scientific diplomacy must balance national interests with global problem-solving. This approach ensures that partnerships remain equitable, fostering mutual growth while maintaining a clear geostrategic focus for Italy. ## Future Diplomatic Outlook Following recent reforms at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the role of science has been significantly elevated within the diplomatic framework. The government is committed to expanding its network of scientific attachés across all continents. By nurturing entrepreneurial talent among young students, Italy intends to translate scientific potential into long-term economic success. ## Sources covering this story - [ANSA English — Italy Strengthens Scientific Diplomacy Through Global Expert Network](https://www.ansa.it/english/news/news_from_embassies/2026/11/04/the-foreign-ministrys-scientific-attaches-an-asset-for-italy_93d65c35-c9b1-45a4-9aa8-d23d9a9c504d.html) - [Il Sole 24 Ore – Italia — Italy Launches National Scientific Diplomacy Strategy](https://www.ilsole24ore.com/art/tajani-lancia-strategia-nazionale-la-diplomazia-scientifica-asi-e-regione-calabria-collaborano-nasa-progetto-artemis-AJNQ3y5B) - [ANSA English — Italy Launches First National Strategy for Scientific Diplomacy](https://www.ansa.it/english/news/news_from_embassies/2026/11/05/tajani-launches-the-first-national-strategy-for-scientific-diplomacy_89486e55-7001-4b8a-8c66-15750a51fe76.html) --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._