Brazil and China Resume Scientific Collaboration with Joint Initiatives Planned for 2027

The National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) of Brazil has renewed its bilateral scientific cooperation with key Chinese institutions, marking a significant restart of dialogue after over a decade. From October 28 to November 3, 2026, CNPq president Olival Freire Jr. visited the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) in Beijing to reestablish partnerships and sign agreements fostering joint research initiatives.

During the visit, Freire signed a memorandum of understanding with NSFC focused on scientific drilling in oceans and laid the groundwork for future joint calls, researcher exchanges, and training programs. These initiatives are slated to begin in 2027, with priority research areas including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, marine geology, global environmental evolution, energy transition, and smart hospital technologies.

Freire highlighted China's status as a global scientific powerhouse and emphasized that the renewed cooperation aligns with Brazil's national development strategy and government priorities. The visit, which involved Brazilian coordinators from National Institutes of Science and Technology and researchers from multiple institutions, was welcomed by CAS Vice President He Hongping and NSFC President Dou Xiankang.

CNPq's cooperation with China dates back to 1984, initially with CAS, but this marks the first official engagement since 2014 and represents an advancement beyond cooperation limited to multilateral BRICS frameworks. This renewed bilateral scientific dialogue underscores Brazil's commitment to strengthening international partnerships to advance science, technology, and innovation.