To advance the development of "One Centre, One Platform, One Base" and leverage Macau’s strengths as an international research platform, the Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Ciências e da Tecnologia (FDCT) held the " Sino-Luso Science and Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme Info Session & Seminar on Marine Science " on March 5, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal. The event aimed to provide potential applicants and partners with insights into the details of the "International Science and Technology Cooperation Funding Program", set to be launched this year, while also fostering collaboration between China and Portugal in the field of marine technology.
In his opening speech, Che Weng Keong, President of the Administrative Committee of FDCT, expressed his hope that the info session and seminar would enhance the understanding of overseas experts and scholars regarding Macau’s research development and opportunities, further expanding cooperation between Macau and Portugal. Moving forward, FDCT will continue to capitalize on Macau’s role as an open platform, strengthening regional and international scientific and technological collaboration, and deepening exchanges with Portugal in the field of science and technology.
As a co-organizer, Carmen Amado Mendes, President of the Macau Scientific and Cultural Center (CCCM), introduced the Center’s positioning and activities to the attendees. As one of Portugal’s leading Asian research and learning institutions, the Macau Scientific and Cultural Center has maintained close cooperation with Macau’s higher education institutions over the years. It has been dedicated to promoting international academic exchanges, providing scholarships for doctoral students in Portugal, and hosting academic conferences with the participation of international scholars.
Chen Xiaoling, Minister-Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Portugal, highlighted in her speech that China-Portugal cooperation in marine technology has achieved significant progress in recent years. As 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Portugal Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, both sides look forward to further deepening collaboration in marine technology, advancing the development of the blue economy, and making new contributions to global sustainable ocean development.
In her speech, Fernanda Ilhéu, President of the New Silk Road Friends Association (ANRS), emphasized the vast potential for scientific research collaboration between China and Portugal. As a platform for China-Portugal exchanges, Macau plays a crucial role in promoting bilateral cooperation. The association actively explores China-Portugal collaborative projects through conferences, seminars, and publications, fostering exchanges and partnerships in economy, science and technology, culture, and social development.
Promotion of Scientific and Technological Cooperation between China and Portugal
At the Seminar on Marine Science, experts from higher education institutions and research centers in Macau and Portugal presented and discussed topics such as ocean engineering, marine resources, pollution, and cooperation opportunities. Participating institutions included: the University of Macau, the Macau University of Science and Technology, the University of Saint Joseph, the University of Lisbon, the Portuguese Catholic University, the University of Coimbra, the University of Algarve, the University of Aveiro, and the University of Porto etc.
During the event, representatives of the Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Ciências e da Tecnologia (FDCT) introduced the details of the application process for the "International Cooperation Research Projects" category under the "International Science and Technology Cooperation Funding Program", which includes China-Portugal partnerships. This funding category supports collaborations with all Portuguese-speaking countries participating in the Forum Macao, as well as with top universities, research institutions, and globally renowned enterprises.
Participants engaged enthusiastically in discussions on marine technology research conducted by various institutions, demonstrating strong interaction and cooperation intentions. Many attendees also inquired with FDCT representatives about the details of the funding programs available. Bringing together experts from China and Portugal, the event provided a platform for sharing the latest scientific research and innovative studies, creating favorable conditions and new opportunities for further strengthening cooperation between both sides.
The event was jointly organized by FDCT and the Macau Scientific and Cultural Center in Portugal, with the New Silk Road Friends Association and the China-Portuguese-Speaking Countries Science and Technology Exchange and Cooperation Center as co-organizers. Around 60 representatives from higher education institutions and research centers in Macau and Portugal participated in the event. Key attendees included Chen Xiaoling, Minister-Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Portugal; Che Weng Keong, President of the Administrative Committee of FDCT; Carmen Amado Mendes, President of the Macau Scientific and Cultural Center; Fernanda Ilhéu, President of the New Silk Road Friends Association; Hun-wei Lee, Rector of the Macau University of Science and Technology; and Nuno Mendonça, Vice-Rector of the University of Coimbra.
Speech by FDCT Administrative Committee President Che Weng Keong
Active Participation in the Info Session and Seminar