Spain’s Minister of Science and Innovation, Diana Morant, spoke this Tuesday about the country’s role within the European Union during its presidency, highlighting that Spain will act as a bridge linking the EU with Mediterranean and Latin American partners in science and space exploration. This stance positions Spain as a pivotal connector in international research collaborations that span continents, aiming to foster shared breakthroughs in technology, space science, and exploration efforts. The claim underscores a commitment to building durable alliances that cross Mediterranean routes while strengthening ties with Latin America, all under the umbrella of EU leadership and regional cooperation. The broader goal is to align scientific ambitions with European strategic priorities and to translate political will into tangible research outcomes for multiple regions, as noted by officials familiar with the briefing.
When Morant appeared at today’s Competitiveness Council session in Brussels, focused on research and space initiatives, she announced plans to relaunch Spain’s Association for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Region (PRIMA). The initiative is described as a significant driver for research cooperation between Europe and the Mediterranean basin, with the minister stressing the importance of implementing and expanding this alliance across existing borders and barriers in the Mediterranean. This emphasis reflects a strategic push to accelerate collaborative programs, share expertise, and mobilize funding for joint projects that benefit both sides of the sea. The aim is to produce measurable research outcomes and to demonstrate a sustained commitment to regional innovation. The remarks were reported by media outlets following the minister’s statements. attribution: EU Council
Morant also indicated that a dedicated meeting would take place during Spain’s EU presidency to discuss broadening ties with Latin American countries, with the focus on open, cross-border collaboration starting on July 1. The term Bridge was used to describe this initiative, signaling a pathway for shared management and governance of science programs that can foster mobility, data sharing, and joint governance of strategic space projects. The discussions will cover policy alignment, funding mechanisms, and the practical steps needed to turn commitments into collaborative efforts on the ground. attribution: EU Presidency communications
In discussions with fellow ministers from the European Union’s member states, Spain outlined its priorities in science and space. A key theme is the transition toward open science, an approach described as a common good that grants citizens access to scientific results and data. This open science agenda aims to improve transparency, accelerate discovery, and increase public engagement with research outcomes. Officials stressed that broad access to results should accompany a robust framework for data quality, reproducibility, and ethical standards, ensuring that the benefits of research are widely shared. attribution: Council briefing notes
Morant also reaffirmed the commitment to a fair and sustainable use of space, noting that the Spanish government has traditionally invested heavily in scientific research and space programs. The creation of a new Spanish space agency was highlighted as a milestone that will help coordinate national activities, support space-related industries, and enhance international cooperation with agencies across Europe and beyond. The aim is to reinforce Spain’s capacity to contribute to European space missions, technological development, and innovation ecosystems that can yield practical, real-world benefits for society. attribution: Ministry statement
Reflecting on the gains from these efforts, Morant cited the emergence of new space professionals as a direct outcome of Spain’s participation in the European Space Agency’s astronaut program. She pointed to the qualification of two Spanish astronauts, Sara García and Pablo Álvarez, as tangible results from the country’s sustained engagement with the space sector and international training initiatives. The remark underscores how national investment in science and space can translate into human capital development and leadership in international missions. attribution: ESA program updates