Italy Responds to Macron’s Research Initiative with Existing Programs

Rome – The Italian Ministry of University and Research has expressed what it termed “strong irritation” following French President Emmanuel Macron’s declaration of ‍the ‘International Conference on Science and Research,’ initially titled “Choose Europe, Choose France.” Macron, alongside⁤ European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, pledged €100 million to attract international researchers, notably those from the United States, following research funding cuts announced ⁤by the Trump administration.

During the conference, Macron stated that Europe should become a “refuge” for researchers in the face of global challenges.

Minister Bernini Highlights Italy’s Prior Efforts

Minister Anna Maria Bernini, who‍ was invited to the conference, commented, “The others announce, Italy has already done so.” Italy’s ambassador to ⁤Paris, emanuela D’Alessandro, attended the conference and, according to diplomatic sources, conveyed Italy’s position, emphasizing the freedom of research as a fundamental principle for scientific and cultural advancement.

Sources within the ministry stated that Italy is already actively engaged in attracting both Italian researchers working abroad and foreign researchers to the country.These efforts include tax incentives for those returning to or relocating⁢ to⁤ Italy, the development of advanced research infrastructure, and a recent €50⁢ million funding opportunity for researchers currently based abroad who have received grants from the European Research⁣ Council (ERC).

The ministry noted that this funding opportunity was announced on April 15, targeting researchers interested in returning to or moving to Italy.

Italy is providing the European Commission with details of its national measures to attract scientists and researchers, as requested by ⁤European Commissioner ‍Zahalieva. This details will aid in coordinating and ⁢harmonizing initiatives at the European level. Italy views the upcoming Competitiveness and Research Council ⁢meeting in Brussels on May 23 as an ideal forum for⁢ discussion among member states to define concrete, sustainable, and forward-looking common policies on research.