The National Board for Research and Innovation (NBRI) had its official opening meeting on the 26 th of November 2018. The Board meeting was attended by the Minister of Finance Mr Haris Georgiadis, who stated that the promotion of a new governance framework for research and innovation has been identified as one of the top priorities of the government.

As the Minister said, facing as a country the most pressing consequences of the economic crisis of the past few years, we need to promote reforms, not only in the public sector, but also in our economy, aiming to expand our national productive base. This expansion, which will enable us to achieve sustainable economic growth, can come precisely through the promotion of research and innovative entrepreneurship.

The Minister of Finance, also talked about the adoption of the National Board for Research and Innovation as an international-level Board, comprised of scientists and professionals that combine vast academic, research and scientific experience with experience in entrepreneurship and innovation. He also said that the role of the Chief Scientist, who will have a coordinating and executive role, will also be important within the new governance system, as the main point for contact and collaboration among public services, ministries, the research and academic community and the private sector. According to the Minister, through the work of the NBRI and through the advice and initiatives we will have as a Government, we will be able to make significant steps towards this direction.

The Chairman of NBRO Prof. Philippos Patsalis stated that research and innovation are crucial factors for economic development and social prosperity for a country. As Prof. Patsalis mentioned, Cyprus can become a competitive and developed economy, driven by research and innovation, scientific excellence, technological development and entrepreneurship. He also mentioned that our country is in need of this new growth model and that the Government is making decisive steps for its implementation.

According to Prof. Patsalis, NBRI will develop and operate on a new and integrated governance system, that will coordinate all key stakeholders of the public and private sector, while defining direction on the basis of an ambitious vision and long-term strategy for research and innovation.