The XIV Brazil-Portugal Summit, held in Brasília on February 19, has marked a significant advancement in scientific collaboration between the two nations, particularly in Atlantic research initiatives.

The Joint Declaration following this Summit states Brazil’s important role in developing the Atlantic International Research Center (AIR Centre), described as “a scientific diplomacy platform of Portuguese initiative with significant expression in countries on both sides of the Atlantic.”
A highlight of the summit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the AIR Centre and the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), designed to strengthen both countries’ positions in Atlantic scientific cooperation. This agreement will support joint research projects focusing on the Blue One Health approach, connecting ocean and human health.

The Declaration also acknowledges the distinct realities of the South and North Atlantic regions, emphasizing cooperation between initiatives like the South Atlantic Peace and Cooperation Zone, the AIR Centre, and the Atlantic Centre.

The prominent mention of the AIR Centre in the Joint Declaration and the new partnership with Fiocruz positions the AIR Centre to expand its influence in critical areas like Blue One Health, marine biotechnology, and ocean monitoring. As both nations strengthen their commitment to Atlantic research, the AIR Centre stands as the cornerstone institution connecting scientific communities across the ocean basin, promising innovative solutions to shared challenges through collaborative research excellence.