(ANSA) - TRIESTE, 06 DIC - Italy and Slovenia strengthen collaboration in research and innovation. The Minister of University and Research, Anna Maria Bernini, and the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Igor Papic, signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the Mur to strengthen joint activities in research projects and in the field of innovation and technological infrastructure. "Italy has ambitious reform programs and investment plans on the national research system and innovation. Our countries agree on the role these factors play in sustainable development and socio-economic progress. In addition, Italy's priorities and plans are in line with those of Slovenia, so we will benefit from deeper cooperation," said Minister Bernini, stressing the importance of promoting cross-border cooperation with the neighboring country also for the benefit of their respective national communities. Cooperation includes various activities, including cooperation between respective national research and innovation programs, institutions and infrastructure, as well as support for joint projects. In addition, mobility between Italian and Slovenian universities and research institutes will be encouraged; doctorates with co-tutors, double degrees and joint degrees will be promoted; and support of joint activities in the areas of higher education, basic and applied research and innovation will be supported. Major areas of collaboration will be on green hydrogen, blue economy, AI, high performance computing and big data, advanced technologies for agriculture, biodiversity, sustainable mobility, gene and mRNA therapies, and humanities and social sciences. For Bernini, the memorandum of understanding "will pave the way for the further implementation of the Agreement on scientific and technological cooperation between Italy and Slovenia, signed in 1998, and for the development of strategic, concrete and ambitious joint research and innovation projects."During the with Minister Papic, the importance of fostering the recognition of degrees for the benefit of the respective minorities studying and working across the border and the economic and social growth of the respective border regions was also emphasized. (ANSA).