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IPU and CERN to work together for peace

The heads of IPU and CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) signed a cooperation agreement that aims to promote initiatives for peace and intercultural dialogue; facilitate exchanges between the scientific community and parliamentarians; and raise parliamentarians’ awareness of the importance of science for sustainable development. The event took place at IPU Headquarters in Geneva on 1 November 2016.

IPU recognizes that science and scientific education contribute to fostering inclusive dialogue and sustainable development. IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong said that he saw a strong case for collaboration. “Science doesn’t lie,” he said. “And MPs need accurate information and data to be able to do their work. Science not only brings food to the table but can also foster world peace.”

“This agreement establishes cooperation between CERN and IPU aimed at working on aspects of common interest,” said Dr. Fabiola Gianotti, the first woman Director-General of CERN. “In particular, it will support CERN’s advocacy of the importance of science, technology, engineering and mathematics education for the sustainable development of society and for peaceful collaboration.”

SESAME, the first major international research centre in the Middle East, is a good example of how science can be used as an instrument of peace. The Centre, based in Jordan and set up on the CERN model, brings together scientists from the Middle East region, including from Israel and Palestine.