Alun Jones, Director of Innovation and International Projects at IAMZ-CIHEAM, participated in a Forum organized by COPE on 26 June in Zaragoza chaired by Juan Barbacil, from Aragon’s Academy of Gastronomy, and titled “Aragón: Leadership in Agriculture, Food and Gastronomy on the world scene”.

Alun Jones took part in the Forum together with Jesús Val (Director of the Experimental Station of Aula Dei/Higher Council of Scientific Research – EEAD-CSIC), José Antonio Domínguez (Director of the Agro-food Research and Technology Centre of Aragon – CITA, of the Government of Aragon) and Rafael Pagan (Director of the Agro-Food Research University Institute of Aragon – IA2). These institutions place Aragon at the heart of agro-food scientific research in Europe.

During the session Jones spoke about IAMZ’s solid experience as a centre of educational excellence with a track record of 50 years in post graduate training. He highlighted the unique opportunities offered by these training activities as a a highly valuable hub of knowledge bringing together students and the best experts in food and agriculture from all over the world.

The Forum was closed by Pilar Alegría, Minister for Innovation, Research and University of the Regional Government of Aragon, who noted that the agro-food sector has to face 3 challenges: increase production, protect the environment and provide healthier products. Solutions require applied science, technology and innovation. Alegría concluded that Aragón has the research capacity, potential and resources to become one of the leading regions in the agro-food sector.