Raúl Compés, director of CIHEAM Zaragoza, José María Aierdi, minister of Rural Development and the Environment of the Regional Government of Navarre and president of the Navarre Institute of Agrifood Technology and Infrastructures (INTIA), have signed a framework agreement to promote training and collaboration on European research and innovation projects in sustainable food systems and rural development strategies.

During the signing ceremony, Aierdi pointed out the importance of collaboration between highly specialised institutions, noting: “This alliance enables INTIA to remain at the forefront of applied experimentation and, more importantly, in the transfer of knowledge and expertise to modernise and enhance the competitiveness of the sector.

Compés reaffirmed CIHEAM’s commitment to sustainable agrifood systems in the Mediterranean region, stating: “INTIA is a key player in knowledge transfer. Its collaboration with CIHEAM will reinforce the capacities of both institutions and strengthen our joint impact.

The priorities established within the framework agreement include the promotion of projects, strategies, and research and innovation policies that boost the development, competitiveness, and internationalisation of the agrifood sector. Planned actions include scientific and technological cooperation, joint development of research projects and the design and implementation of large-scale R&D+i programmes.

Through this partnership, both institutions reaffirm their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and excellence in the agrifood sector, in response to current challenges and contributing to the progress of rural communities through collaborative strategies.