IIASA and Chinese partners explore future collaboration in science diplomacy

© IIASA

Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between IIASA and Chinese research institutions in areas including climate change, sustainable energy transitions, food and water security, demographic change, and systems analysis. Participants also explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in science diplomacy and international research exchange at a time of growing global uncertainty.

“IIASA was founded on the conviction that scientific collaboration can help bridge geopolitical divides and support peaceful international cooperation,” said IIASA Director General Hans Joachim (John) Schellnhuber. “Our long-standing partnership with China demonstrates the importance of maintaining open scientific dialogue and working together to address shared global challenges that no country can solve alone.”

The visit highlighted the strong and expanding relationship between IIASA and China. China has been a member of IIASA since 2002 through the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), and more than 50 Chinese institutions have collaborated with IIASA over the years across a broad range of scientific fields. Current areas of collaboration include sustainable agriculture, climate mitigation, air pollution, disaster preparedness, population dynamics, and global energy transitions.

Participants also discussed IIASA’s growing role in science diplomacy and international dialogue. The exchange reflected the Institute’s commitment to fostering cooperation across regions and political systems through science-based engagement and evidence-informed policymaking.

As part of the discussions, IIASA representatives highlighted several ongoing and planned initiatives, including international collaborations on sustainability and preparations for future high-level science diplomacy activities involving global research and policy leaders.