Minister Damjanović, Pikalo: Continuation of dialogue within SEEIIST projects

Minister Damjanović stressed the significance of the SEEIIST project as one of the most prominent examples of "Science for Society" projects because of its medical application in terms of using the most modern method in treating a wide range of cancer. She also highlighted its scientific dimension, pointing out that this project would be unique in the world precisely because 50% of the time would be devoted to biomedicine research. It is a development project that would enable the involvement of the economic sector, as the goal is to involve enterprises from the region in the construction of this modern technology, which would encourage technological transfer. As the project is now entering a dynamic phase, active involvement of partners is needed, with Slovenia being one of the first countries to support the project. The first next step in this regard is the establishment of a joint body, which would apply for additional resources in order to finalise the "Design Study Phase."

Minister Pikalo agreed that such a project is needed for the region of Southeast Europe, but also for Europe in general, especially emphasising that within the Horizon Europe, the next EU Framework Program for Research and Innovation, within the second pillar "Collaborative Projects," "children's cancer" is on the list of missions' funding, so that the topic is current in the context of the use of funds from this programme.