The meeting offered a chance to exchange ideas on how to better support researchers in developing countries and strengthen science diplomacy efforts.
On 29 January 2026, TWAS, IAP, and OWSD welcomed Minister Plenipotentiary Lamberto Moruzzi, director for Scientific, Space, and Sports Diplomacy within the Directorate-General for Economic Cooperation at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The meeting took place at the organizations’ headquarters in Trieste, Italy. It offered a chance to revisit a long and productive partnership as well as the growing role of the three organizations in science diplomacy.
From Trieste, the TWAS-IAP-OWSD network extends to institutions and researchers across the global South, making the city a true gateway for Italy’s engagement with international science. During the visit, discussions focused on how the three organizations support developing countries in strengthening their own scientific systems. Much of the work of TWAS, IAP, and OWSD—which together has directly supported over 12,000 researchers—is designed to help nations retain their brightest minds by creating opportunities for research and collaboration at home. This helps counter the brain drain to richer nations and allows scientists to contribute to development directly within their own communities.
The conversation also explored how TWAS-IAP-OWSD programmes move beyond the traditional model of aid. Instead of short-term support, they help build scientific ecosystems that encourage innovation, drive economic growth, and provide countries with the tools to address their own challenges. Over time, these connections create a network of researchers who maintain strong ties with Italy, and many become lifelong partners of the Italian scientific system.
